Photo of Ayman Tanios - Counselling for Success, SSW, OCT, Registered Social Worker
Counselling for Success
Registered Social Worker, SSW, OCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
I am committed to provide counseling for the success of people in their lives and manage to uphold a cohesive and fun atmosphere, also I respect diversity, confidentiality and maintain ethical boundaries. In my practice at a nonprofit community centre, I participated in educational wellness and community support programs to assist people in many occasions. Also, I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults and families who may be struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, school refusal, test anxiety and career concerns. I also conduct self assessments to better understand children and adults' learning profiles and examine problems with learning or attention.
I am committed to provide counseling for the success of people in their lives and manage to uphold a cohesive and fun atmosphere, also I respect diversity, confidentiality and maintain ethical boundaries. In my practice at a nonprofit community centre, I participated in educational wellness and community support programs to assist people in many occasions. Also, I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults and families who may be struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, school refusal, test anxiety and career concerns. I also conduct self assessments to better understand children and adults' learning profiles and examine problems with learning or attention.
(647) 694-1178 View (647) 694-1178
Photo of Maneet Bhatia - Bhatia Psychology Group, PhD, Psychologist
Bhatia Psychology Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Bhatia Psychology Group provides individual and couples therapy to help you build a mentally healthier and happier life. Our team features clinical psychologists, social workers, and registered psychotherapists. We more than therapists — we are caring, compassionate and committed individuals guiding you on a path to happiness, self-love and inner peace. We are here to help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship challenges or more.
Bhatia Psychology Group provides individual and couples therapy to help you build a mentally healthier and happier life. Our team features clinical psychologists, social workers, and registered psychotherapists. We more than therapists — we are caring, compassionate and committed individuals guiding you on a path to happiness, self-love and inner peace. We are here to help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship challenges or more.
(289) 805-3520 View (289) 805-3520
Photo of Marcus Chow, MDiv, RP, CCFT, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Marcus Chow
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, CCFT, RMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B  (Online Only)
I work with clients in the areas of: depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, anger management, self-esteem issues, boundaries, communication skills, life transitions, premarital counselling, marital relationship & family issues.
My passion is to walk along side with people during their journey towards healing and growth. I value each client as a unique individual, who deserves to be treated with compassion and respect. I believe that developing emotional maturity and gaining self-understanding are essential steps towards personal growth.Over the course of our lives, we all inevitably experienced some emotional wounds, which hinder us from personal growth. Counselling serves as a process to help us uncover those wounds and heal, and in the process, gain self-understanding and self-awareness, and be empowered to make changes towards holistic growth.
I work with clients in the areas of: depression & anxiety, grief & loss, trauma & abuse, anger management, self-esteem issues, boundaries, communication skills, life transitions, premarital counselling, marital relationship & family issues.
My passion is to walk along side with people during their journey towards healing and growth. I value each client as a unique individual, who deserves to be treated with compassion and respect. I believe that developing emotional maturity and gaining self-understanding are essential steps towards personal growth.Over the course of our lives, we all inevitably experienced some emotional wounds, which hinder us from personal growth. Counselling serves as a process to help us uncover those wounds and heal, and in the process, gain self-understanding and self-awareness, and be empowered to make changes towards holistic growth.
(855) 956-1329 View (855) 956-1329
Photo of Harjinder S Mundi - Listening to Me, CYW CYC, BEd OCT, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker
Listening to Me
Registered Social Worker, CYW CYC, BEd OCT, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Harjinder provides treatment and counseling for depression, anxiety/panic, relationship, and family issues, school, and work-related issues.
Welcoming New Clients! Are you looking for a therapist that can offer support during a challenging time? Then you should meet Harjinder Mundi. Harjinder is a Child and Youth Care Counsellor who possess’ a minor in Family Supports and Community Practice from Ryerson University. He is also an Ontario Certified Teacher from the University of Ontario and a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor. Harjinder has worked in different educational facilities, treatment centres, & hospitals for over 20 years.
Harjinder provides treatment and counseling for depression, anxiety/panic, relationship, and family issues, school, and work-related issues.
Welcoming New Clients! Are you looking for a therapist that can offer support during a challenging time? Then you should meet Harjinder Mundi. Harjinder is a Child and Youth Care Counsellor who possess’ a minor in Family Supports and Community Practice from Ryerson University. He is also an Ontario Certified Teacher from the University of Ontario and a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor. Harjinder has worked in different educational facilities, treatment centres, & hospitals for over 20 years.
(289) 207-7802 View (289) 207-7802
Photo of Richard Langhorne, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Richard Langhorne
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Clients in my practice often seek support in managing struggles around anger, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. Given the complexity of some problems, therapy sessions are always aimed to address the issue(s) of greatest relevance to my clients.
Clients in my practice often seek support in managing struggles around anger, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. Given the complexity of some problems, therapy sessions are always aimed to address the issue(s) of greatest relevance to my clients.
(289) 217-9173 View (289) 217-9173
Photo of Rom Malik, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Rom Malik
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Our life experiences have shaped our perceptions, coping methods and relationships. For 25+ years I have researched symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety): how they develop from life experiences, and how to dismantle them in therapy. Together, we will work to assist you in overcoming your sadness, fears, worries, and low self-esteem while helping you navigate stressors at home, work and family. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental and friendly space. We can build on your courage to support your healing and growth. Therapy offers freedom to explore with compassion, to find stability, and to create new possibilities.
Our life experiences have shaped our perceptions, coping methods and relationships. For 25+ years I have researched symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety): how they develop from life experiences, and how to dismantle them in therapy. Together, we will work to assist you in overcoming your sadness, fears, worries, and low self-esteem while helping you navigate stressors at home, work and family. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgmental and friendly space. We can build on your courage to support your healing and growth. Therapy offers freedom to explore with compassion, to find stability, and to create new possibilities.
(647) 931-1563 View (647) 931-1563
Photo of Hadi Bahiraei, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Hadi Bahiraei
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
With over 20 years of experience in clinical and academic settings, Dr. Hadi Bahiraei is a registered psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. He has provided psychological treatment to adults and families since 1996. He applies individual Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy), Emotion-Focused Therapy ,Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Schema Therapy for a range of psychological difficulties such as personality disorders, depression and stress, anxiety (phobias, trauma, PTSD, and compulsions), and health anxiety. He also conducts psychological assessments/evaluations for a range of emotional and cognitive problems with adults.
With over 20 years of experience in clinical and academic settings, Dr. Hadi Bahiraei is a registered psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. He has provided psychological treatment to adults and families since 1996. He applies individual Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy), Emotion-Focused Therapy ,Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Schema Therapy for a range of psychological difficulties such as personality disorders, depression and stress, anxiety (phobias, trauma, PTSD, and compulsions), and health anxiety. He also conducts psychological assessments/evaluations for a range of emotional and cognitive problems with adults.
(647) 930-6787 View (647) 930-6787
Photo of Arvin Puyan, RSW, MACP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Arvin Puyan
Registered Psychotherapist, RSW, MACP, MA
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
As a psychotherapist, I provide compassionate support for clients facing depression, anxiety, OCD, work stress, and relationship challenges. In a safe and collaborative environment, I work to understand each individual's unique needs and goals. Together, we explore underlying patterns and develop tailored coping strategies. Through empathy and trust, I empower clients to enhance self-awareness, cultivate resilience, and foster positive change. My aim is to facilitate a journey of self-discovery and growth, guiding clients towards greater emotional well-being and fulfillment.
As a psychotherapist, I provide compassionate support for clients facing depression, anxiety, OCD, work stress, and relationship challenges. In a safe and collaborative environment, I work to understand each individual's unique needs and goals. Together, we explore underlying patterns and develop tailored coping strategies. Through empathy and trust, I empower clients to enhance self-awareness, cultivate resilience, and foster positive change. My aim is to facilitate a journey of self-discovery and growth, guiding clients towards greater emotional well-being and fulfillment.
(365) 305-0034 View (365) 305-0034
Photo of Shaahin (Ghaffar) Malek Khosravi, PhD, RP(Q), OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shaahin (Ghaffar) Malek Khosravi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD, RP(Q), OAMHP
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Sometimes we are mentally injured by events or accidents in our lives; they can cause shallow or deep wounds and trauma to our emotions. In some cases, we scratch our wounds unconsciously and worsen them instead of accepting and healing them compassionately. Uncompassionate focus on our injuries or pain can negatively impact our quality of life. They may bring stress, anxiety, depression, and other uncomfortable feelings. Counselling can soothe wounds and ease pain. I try to help you heal those wounds and improve your health. I will be there with you throughout this journey by listening to you and gaining insight together.
Sometimes we are mentally injured by events or accidents in our lives; they can cause shallow or deep wounds and trauma to our emotions. In some cases, we scratch our wounds unconsciously and worsen them instead of accepting and healing them compassionately. Uncompassionate focus on our injuries or pain can negatively impact our quality of life. They may bring stress, anxiety, depression, and other uncomfortable feelings. Counselling can soothe wounds and ease pain. I try to help you heal those wounds and improve your health. I will be there with you throughout this journey by listening to you and gaining insight together.
(289) 597-9080 View (289) 597-9080
Photo of Shahram Kavehsemnani, RN, Psychiatric Nurse
Shahram Kavehsemnani
Psychiatric Nurse, RN
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a rut or struggling with depression or the aftermath of a trauma? We all face mental health challenges sometimes and need some help. Finding the right support can be challenging and I'm here to help. My goal is to empower you with specific skills so that you can be your own therapist, all from the comfort of your home. I use proven strategies to help you change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours so that you can feel like yourself again.
Are you feeling stuck in a rut or struggling with depression or the aftermath of a trauma? We all face mental health challenges sometimes and need some help. Finding the right support can be challenging and I'm here to help. My goal is to empower you with specific skills so that you can be your own therapist, all from the comfort of your home. I use proven strategies to help you change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours so that you can feel like yourself again.
(437) 747-7494 View (437) 747-7494
Photo of John Schurmann - Schurmann Counselling & Life Coaching, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Schurmann Counselling & Life Coaching
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Clients want to know why they are depressed or anxious.
As a counsellor, life coach and ADHD specialist, I draw on extensive experience to customize treatment that address each client’s mental, emotional, spiritual, relational and social needs. Unlike many counsellors who only focus on life issues, my expertise in life coaching is an additional specialty that benefits clients. My proven counselling techniques and practical life coaching tools provide quick results and equip clients with the know-how to self-manage their lives more effectively. I found that the majority of people need life skills training, whether it’s dealing with stress, anger or looking to improve their relationships.
Clients want to know why they are depressed or anxious.
As a counsellor, life coach and ADHD specialist, I draw on extensive experience to customize treatment that address each client’s mental, emotional, spiritual, relational and social needs. Unlike many counsellors who only focus on life issues, my expertise in life coaching is an additional specialty that benefits clients. My proven counselling techniques and practical life coaching tools provide quick results and equip clients with the know-how to self-manage their lives more effectively. I found that the majority of people need life skills training, whether it’s dealing with stress, anger or looking to improve their relationships.
(289) 207-6735 View (289) 207-6735
Photo of Stuart Goldman, BA, MA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stuart Goldman
Registered Social Worker, BA, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
I have received training in CBT, DBT, Substance Use, Depression Care, Trauma, Couple and Family Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am a Psychotherapy provider with over 30 years of experience in both hospital and community settings with the assessment and treatment of a wide variety of issues impacting adults and youth such as: anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, psychosis, couple and family issues, interpersonal difficulties, anger management, work/school and legal issues.
I have received training in CBT, DBT, Substance Use, Depression Care, Trauma, Couple and Family Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am a Psychotherapy provider with over 30 years of experience in both hospital and community settings with the assessment and treatment of a wide variety of issues impacting adults and youth such as: anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, psychosis, couple and family issues, interpersonal difficulties, anger management, work/school and legal issues.
(289) 276-8318 View (289) 276-8318
Photo of Long Zheng, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Long Zheng
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with clients with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, Psychosis.
I am a warm psychotherapist who will listen to your concerns, support you emotionally and help you develop the best solution for your problems.
My specialty is working with clients with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, Psychosis.
I am a warm psychotherapist who will listen to your concerns, support you emotionally and help you develop the best solution for your problems.
(844) 239-9694 View (844) 239-9694
Photo of Dr. Abolfazl Mohammadi, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Abolfazl Mohammadi
Psychologist under supervised practice, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C
Now Welcoming New Clients: Virtual or In-Person. If you're an adult and dealing with anxiety, depression, or stress-related issues, you've come to the right place. With a strong emphasis on creating a safe and professional environment, I provide both in-person and virtual individual sessions. If you are experiencing issues that significantly impact your daily life, affecting your educational, relational, or occupational performance, consider CBT as a well-established treatment to overcome your challenges. My goal is to support you in enhancing your well-being, fostering happiness, and achieving personal success.
Now Welcoming New Clients: Virtual or In-Person. If you're an adult and dealing with anxiety, depression, or stress-related issues, you've come to the right place. With a strong emphasis on creating a safe and professional environment, I provide both in-person and virtual individual sessions. If you are experiencing issues that significantly impact your daily life, affecting your educational, relational, or occupational performance, consider CBT as a well-established treatment to overcome your challenges. My goal is to support you in enhancing your well-being, fostering happiness, and achieving personal success.
(437) 747-6370 View (437) 747-6370
Photo of Mohammad Barzegari - Mohammad Barzegari , RP (Q), MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Mohammad Barzegari
Registered Psychotherapist, RP (Q), MA
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
I use DBT, ACT, and IFS (the most efficient modalities in psychotherapy) to help YOU overcome Anxiety, Depression, Relational problems, Suicidal ideation, ADHD, and trauma.
Are you frustrated with your INNER-VOICE? Do you feel lost in this world? Are you tired of not reaching your GOALS? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of education in psychology and 7 years of experience working as an international therapist, I’ve learned how our unconscious human mind can block our way and make us stuck. I can help you to change what is NOT working in your life. I design treatment plans based on your needs and use only scientific tools to ensure YOU get what you need out of therapy.
I use DBT, ACT, and IFS (the most efficient modalities in psychotherapy) to help YOU overcome Anxiety, Depression, Relational problems, Suicidal ideation, ADHD, and trauma.
Are you frustrated with your INNER-VOICE? Do you feel lost in this world? Are you tired of not reaching your GOALS? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of education in psychology and 7 years of experience working as an international therapist, I’ve learned how our unconscious human mind can block our way and make us stuck. I can help you to change what is NOT working in your life. I design treatment plans based on your needs and use only scientific tools to ensure YOU get what you need out of therapy.
(289) 804-5862 View (289) 804-5862
Photo of Lloyd Chow, BA, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Lloyd Chow
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L3T
Are you struggling to maintain good relationships, well-being and peace of mind? Lloyd is patient, kindhearted and a creative out-the-box thinker. He is passionate about holistic care, and finding a healthy balance between the bio-psycho-social-spiritual areas of life. His sensible and personable approach is down to earth, and he enjoys helping others through the process of healing and wholeness. Lloyd’s areas of interest include vocational direction, managing stress, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sexual issues, addictions, grief and mourning, relational dynamics and anger management.
Are you struggling to maintain good relationships, well-being and peace of mind? Lloyd is patient, kindhearted and a creative out-the-box thinker. He is passionate about holistic care, and finding a healthy balance between the bio-psycho-social-spiritual areas of life. His sensible and personable approach is down to earth, and he enjoys helping others through the process of healing and wholeness. Lloyd’s areas of interest include vocational direction, managing stress, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sexual issues, addictions, grief and mourning, relational dynamics and anger management.
(365) 655-6280 View (365) 655-6280
Photo of Emad Zahedi - First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B  (Online Only)
Our specialities include: ADHD, men's issues, career guidance, sexual addiction, grief, video game addiction, gambling, alcohol use, addiction, infidelity, anger management, behavioural issues, anxiety, and depression.
Men often carry heavy burdens silently, feeling pressured to hide their struggles. But inside, they're hurting. They suffer with tough emotions like sadness, anxiety, addiction, and past traumas. Therapy is like a safe harbor in a storm. It's a place where guys can open up in a safe, non-judgemental space. It helps them untangle their feelings, heal old wounds, and discover their true selves. My role is to support men with the tools and insight to tackle life's hurdles with strength and confidence. Whether its your first time seeking help or you are looking for something new, we are here to support you. Book a free consult today!
Our specialities include: ADHD, men's issues, career guidance, sexual addiction, grief, video game addiction, gambling, alcohol use, addiction, infidelity, anger management, behavioural issues, anxiety, and depression.
Men often carry heavy burdens silently, feeling pressured to hide their struggles. But inside, they're hurting. They suffer with tough emotions like sadness, anxiety, addiction, and past traumas. Therapy is like a safe harbor in a storm. It's a place where guys can open up in a safe, non-judgemental space. It helps them untangle their feelings, heal old wounds, and discover their true selves. My role is to support men with the tools and insight to tackle life's hurdles with strength and confidence. Whether its your first time seeking help or you are looking for something new, we are here to support you. Book a free consult today!
(289) 903-0965 View (289) 903-0965
Photo of Lionel Stephen Boodlal, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lionel Stephen Boodlal
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4C  (Online Only)
I assist in addressing depression, anxiety, excessive stress, emotional regulation, interpersonal conflict, and life transitions amongst other challenges.
Taking responsibility for ourselves and our experience of life begins with embracing our trials and tribulations, and facing them head on. This fosters a connection with the source of our power that builds resilience to manage whatever may come. Developing the resourcefulness required to fashion a life that is fulfilling and supportive of our overall well-being is an ever-evolving process, and can be more clearly navigated with the help of a trusted professional. Using a person-centred, culturally-, and trauma-informed approach, I aim to empower people to improve their quality of life through organic and systematic processes.
I assist in addressing depression, anxiety, excessive stress, emotional regulation, interpersonal conflict, and life transitions amongst other challenges.
Taking responsibility for ourselves and our experience of life begins with embracing our trials and tribulations, and facing them head on. This fosters a connection with the source of our power that builds resilience to manage whatever may come. Developing the resourcefulness required to fashion a life that is fulfilling and supportive of our overall well-being is an ever-evolving process, and can be more clearly navigated with the help of a trusted professional. Using a person-centred, culturally-, and trauma-informed approach, I aim to empower people to improve their quality of life through organic and systematic processes.
(289) 301-7212 View (289) 301-7212
Photo of Danny Seto, MPsy, MDiv, BEd, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Danny Seto
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, MDiv, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4S
: addictions, pornography, relationships, anxiety/depression, and other male issues).
I am a patient, empathetic, and understanding individual who will work with you on any presenting concerns. My approach surrounds a person-centered approach. I pull from a variety of interventions to suit your unique needs. Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking therapy to work through your concerns that will enable you to increase your wellbeing and satisfaction in life. My name is Danny Seto and I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Marriage & Family Therapist and Approved Supervisor, Certified Couples and Family Therapist, and Certified Play Therapist & Supervisor as well as a Certified EMDR Therapist.
: addictions, pornography, relationships, anxiety/depression, and other male issues).
I am a patient, empathetic, and understanding individual who will work with you on any presenting concerns. My approach surrounds a person-centered approach. I pull from a variety of interventions to suit your unique needs. Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking therapy to work through your concerns that will enable you to increase your wellbeing and satisfaction in life. My name is Danny Seto and I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Marriage & Family Therapist and Approved Supervisor, Certified Couples and Family Therapist, and Certified Play Therapist & Supervisor as well as a Certified EMDR Therapist.
(289) 204-6307 View (289) 204-6307
Photo of Henry Wong, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Henry Wong
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4S
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
(289) 536-4946 View (289) 536-4946

See more therapy options for Richmond Hill

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.