Depression Psychiatrists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Anissa Womack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Anissa Womack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810  (Online Only)
Together, we'll create a plan to help you break free from the grip of depression and anxiety and embrace a brighter, more hopeful future.
Are you struggling with constant sadness, overwhelming emotions, and/or difficulty concentrating on tasks at school or work? Have you been skipping out on gatherings or avoiding loved ones due to lack of interest in doing things? Maybe you feel like you've let down your family or that you're becoming a burden to them. You're unable to quiet your mind and fall sleep. You toss and turn all night, then you get up in the morning feeling exhausted and frustrated all over again. This daily battle with depression and anxiety can leave you feeling isolated, guilty, and overwhelmed. If this sounds like you, know that you ARE NOT alone!
Together, we'll create a plan to help you break free from the grip of depression and anxiety and embrace a brighter, more hopeful future.
Are you struggling with constant sadness, overwhelming emotions, and/or difficulty concentrating on tasks at school or work? Have you been skipping out on gatherings or avoiding loved ones due to lack of interest in doing things? Maybe you feel like you've let down your family or that you're becoming a burden to them. You're unable to quiet your mind and fall sleep. You toss and turn all night, then you get up in the morning feeling exhausted and frustrated all over again. This daily battle with depression and anxiety can leave you feeling isolated, guilty, and overwhelmed. If this sounds like you, know that you ARE NOT alone!
(225) 605-3103 View (225) 605-3103
Photo of Always Hope LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Always Hope LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNPBC, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816  (Online Only)
I have been treating patients for a diverse range of diagnoses that include, but not limited to depression, bipolar, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, addiction, trauma, and numerous other co-current medical disorders.
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
I have been treating patients for a diverse range of diagnoses that include, but not limited to depression, bipolar, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, addiction, trauma, and numerous other co-current medical disorders.
I am New York transplant who received his Masters degree as a Nurse Practitioner from South University in Savannah Georgia and then went on to pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Chamberlain University. I am nationally board certified in Psychiatric/Mental/Behavioral medicine, Family Medicine, and Emergency medicine. I practice in 3 locations Baton Rouge, Metairie and the Prairieville Office. I believe that mental health is the foundation for physical health. Working as a team with the other medical providers, I want to help patients build that strong foundation.
(225) 425-8039 View (225) 425-8039
Photo of Integrity Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Integrity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70827  (Online Only)
The disorders treated are: depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, behavioral issues, psychosis, and many others.
Integrity Mental Health Services has a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. We specialize in psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and the psychiatric nurse practitioner. ****Controlled substance are monitored and prescribed upon the providers discretion.**** We are offering TELEHEALTH only.
The disorders treated are: depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, behavioral issues, psychosis, and many others.
Integrity Mental Health Services has a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is also certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. We specialize in psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Safe and effective care is achieved collaboratively between the patient and the psychiatric nurse practitioner. ****Controlled substance are monitored and prescribed upon the providers discretion.**** We are offering TELEHEALTH only.
(225) 240-4750 View (225) 240-4750
Photo of Jerica Mitchell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Jerica Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70801  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, lack of focus, loss of motivation, problems with sleep, and/or up and down moods? Or maybe you don't know exactly what is wrong but you know that mentally you are not feeling your best.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, lack of focus, loss of motivation, problems with sleep, and/or up and down moods? Or maybe you don't know exactly what is wrong but you know that mentally you are not feeling your best.
(225) 535-8848 View (225) 535-8848
Photo of Ashlyn Crosby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Ashlyn Crosby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
Book appointments directly at www.louisianapsych.com . Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance only. All other patients will be considered private pay. Conditions we treat include anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, bipolar and PTSD. See our website for details on ADHD testing. Medication management may include starting new medications or making adjustments to current medications as indicated. We look forward to meeting you.
Book appointments directly at www.louisianapsych.com . Accepting Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance only. All other patients will be considered private pay. Conditions we treat include anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, bipolar and PTSD. See our website for details on ADHD testing. Medication management may include starting new medications or making adjustments to current medications as indicated. We look forward to meeting you.
(225) 230-2736 View (225) 230-2736
Photo of Aldo Mejia, Psychiatrist in Baton Rouge, LA
Aldo Mejia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
Dr. Mejia has comprehensive experience in diagnosing and treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety & panic disorders, phobias, psychoses, stress-induced adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, adult ADD/ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a bilingual Spanish-speaking physician who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual patient needs, including attention to each patient's personal history and their particular concerns about, or fears of, medications. He approaches each client with patience, warmth, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and the patient's own sense of comfort and trust.
Dr. Mejia has comprehensive experience in diagnosing and treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety & panic disorders, phobias, psychoses, stress-induced adjustment disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, adult ADD/ADHD, and substance use disorders. He is a bilingual Spanish-speaking physician who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to individual patient needs, including attention to each patient's personal history and their particular concerns about, or fears of, medications. He approaches each client with patience, warmth, understanding, and helpful explanations that facilitate treatment and the patient's own sense of comfort and trust.
(504) 322-3837 View (504) 322-3837
Photo of Integrated Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist in Baton Rouge, LA
Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
I treat patients with a variety of mental health issues, such as Mood Disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. I like to work at problems from various angles, which often includes working with patients to assess and treat their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social issues.
(504) 322-3837 View (504) 322-3837
Photo of Ellen Grappe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Ellen Grappe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70805  (Online Only)
Ellen is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Ellen began her education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, receiving a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. During this time, she contributed to research on schizophrenia, treatment-resistant depression, and the effect of adverse childhood experiences on mental health. She completed her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nursing from Northwestern State University in Louisiana.
Ellen is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Ellen began her education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, receiving a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. During this time, she contributed to research on schizophrenia, treatment-resistant depression, and the effect of adverse childhood experiences on mental health. She completed her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nursing from Northwestern State University in Louisiana.
(318) 386-3892 View (318) 386-3892
Photo of Alisa J Willoughby, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Alisa J Willoughby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70808  (Online Only)
I provide compassionate, evidence-based, and practical care through medication management. I begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand the needs and strengths of each person. We would work collaboratively so that my services are personalized and effective. The care I offer is always individualized and nonjudgemental. I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, and body-positive. I will bring kindness and clinical expertise to the treatment of a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based, and practical care through medication management. I begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand the needs and strengths of each person. We would work collaboratively so that my services are personalized and effective. The care I offer is always individualized and nonjudgemental. I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, and body-positive. I will bring kindness and clinical expertise to the treatment of a wide variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.
(225) 460-4270 View (225) 460-4270
Photo of Tunya Jack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Tunya Jack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I provide quality, compassionate mental health care to individuals, families, and communities coping with mental conditions/disorders, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and more, through conducting a comprehensive assessment, medication management and education.
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes we may feel like things will not improve or consider choosing the option of giving up. Some life experiences may have you feeling unworthy, disconnected, or extremely drained. Those symptoms could inhibit the development of healthy relationships and prevent you from functioning at your highest potential. I am pleased to inform you that help is available and easily accessible through telehealth services. I am capable and willing to establish a trustworthy rapport with you that enhances your life.
I provide quality, compassionate mental health care to individuals, families, and communities coping with mental conditions/disorders, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and more, through conducting a comprehensive assessment, medication management and education.
Life has its ups and downs, and sometimes we may feel like things will not improve or consider choosing the option of giving up. Some life experiences may have you feeling unworthy, disconnected, or extremely drained. Those symptoms could inhibit the development of healthy relationships and prevent you from functioning at your highest potential. I am pleased to inform you that help is available and easily accessible through telehealth services. I am capable and willing to establish a trustworthy rapport with you that enhances your life.
(225) 460-4250 View (225) 460-4250
Photo of Crystal Hebert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Crystal Hebert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
My goal is help you peel away the layers of mental health issues so that you can be wholly YOU! Although you may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc, your diagnosis does not define you.
Crystal Hebert is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Baton Rouge Louisiana. She provides an integrative mental health perspective and has experience caring for a wide range of diagnoses across the lifespan. Crystal earned her Bachelors of science in nursing from Southeastern Louisiana University and her Masters in Nursing from Univeristy Of South Alabama. She has over 13 years of combined nursing experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Crystal enjoys working with neuro-divergent adolescents and young adults and serves as a guide in navigating obstacles,
My goal is help you peel away the layers of mental health issues so that you can be wholly YOU! Although you may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc, your diagnosis does not define you.
Crystal Hebert is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner from Baton Rouge Louisiana. She provides an integrative mental health perspective and has experience caring for a wide range of diagnoses across the lifespan. Crystal earned her Bachelors of science in nursing from Southeastern Louisiana University and her Masters in Nursing from Univeristy Of South Alabama. She has over 13 years of combined nursing experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Crystal enjoys working with neuro-divergent adolescents and young adults and serves as a guide in navigating obstacles,
(225) 535-8883 View (225) 535-8883
Photo of Pierre Care Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Pierre Care Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am Dr. Monique Williams, a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. My approach is rooted in holistic and patient-centered principles, fostering a collaborative alliance that prioritizes trust and open communication. With expertise in areas such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and ADHD, I aim to empower individuals on their journey to optimal mental and emotional well-being.
I am Dr. Monique Williams, a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to providing personalized mental health care. My approach is rooted in holistic and patient-centered principles, fostering a collaborative alliance that prioritizes trust and open communication. With expertise in areas such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and ADHD, I aim to empower individuals on their journey to optimal mental and emotional well-being.
(225) 414-6885 View (225) 414-6885
Photo of Serenity Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Serenity Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70827  (Online Only)
With a range of medications available tailored to your diagnosis we address conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood swings, etc.
Serenity Mental Health Services provides telehealth/virtual mental health consultations to individuals across Louisiana. Specializing in medication management, our services cater to patients aged 8 and above facing emotional or behavioral challenges. We welcome individuals seeking evaluation and medical treatment for psychiatric disorders. It's important to note that we do not typically prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, etc.).
With a range of medications available tailored to your diagnosis we address conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood swings, etc.
Serenity Mental Health Services provides telehealth/virtual mental health consultations to individuals across Louisiana. Specializing in medication management, our services cater to patients aged 8 and above facing emotional or behavioral challenges. We welcome individuals seeking evaluation and medical treatment for psychiatric disorders. It's important to note that we do not typically prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, etc.).
(225) 314-6906 View (225) 314-6906
Photo of Blaine Grice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Blaine Grice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
I am a Louisiana native and received my MSN from the University of South Alabama. I am board certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood, and psychotic disorders. My background includes emergency room/critical care nurse at Level I & II trauma centers, inpatient psychiatry nursing as well as a variety of other healthcare settings. I have a passion for helping those with their mental health. I utilize a holistic, evidence-based approach with my patients.
I am a Louisiana native and received my MSN from the University of South Alabama. I am board certified as a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner by the ANCC and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood, and psychotic disorders. My background includes emergency room/critical care nurse at Level I & II trauma centers, inpatient psychiatry nursing as well as a variety of other healthcare settings. I have a passion for helping those with their mental health. I utilize a holistic, evidence-based approach with my patients.
(504) 788-1782 View (504) 788-1782
Photo of Darrell Youngblood, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Darrell Youngblood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
The type of client I envision working with is someone who is struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Their primary requirement is to have a compassionate provider who can support them in effectively managing their medications. They desire a nonjudgemental and unbiased presence to rely on during their journey.
The type of client I envision working with is someone who is struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Their primary requirement is to have a compassionate provider who can support them in effectively managing their medications. They desire a nonjudgemental and unbiased presence to rely on during their journey.
(504) 294-8529 View (504) 294-8529
Photo of Dr. Willa Rose Shields, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Dr. Willa Rose Shields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70801  (Online Only)
Dr. Shields is a trusted culturally diverse, holistic care visionary, public speaker, life coach, telehealth access consultant and behavioral health provider. She is highly regarded for her integrative behavioral health care expertise. Her care provided is based on underpinnings of psychiatric illness or disease. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, ADHD and mood disorders are just a few of the concerns that are addressed. Your healing and wellness is paramount in the process of care.
Dr. Shields is a trusted culturally diverse, holistic care visionary, public speaker, life coach, telehealth access consultant and behavioral health provider. She is highly regarded for her integrative behavioral health care expertise. Her care provided is based on underpinnings of psychiatric illness or disease. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, ADHD and mood disorders are just a few of the concerns that are addressed. Your healing and wellness is paramount in the process of care.
(225) 351-8079 View (225) 351-8079
Photo of Katherine Perkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Katherine Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70818
We evaluate and treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance abuse and ADHD.
I understand that life can become overwhelming when our mental health is suffering. I also understand that when our mental health is not optimal it can be hard to navigate life. It can affect many areas of our lives including our relationships, employment, sleep and appetite. I believe in treating every patient with dignity and respect, and meeting them where they are. I also believe that listening to our patient's needs is an essential element in developing their personalized treatment plan.
We evaluate and treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance abuse and ADHD.
I understand that life can become overwhelming when our mental health is suffering. I also understand that when our mental health is not optimal it can be hard to navigate life. It can affect many areas of our lives including our relationships, employment, sleep and appetite. I believe in treating every patient with dignity and respect, and meeting them where they are. I also believe that listening to our patient's needs is an essential element in developing their personalized treatment plan.
(225) 376-2128 View (225) 376-2128
Photo of Kayontae Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Kayontae Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70802  (Online Only)
Are you trying to find solace in your life? Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Are you having issues with day-to-day functioning? I aim to help you help yourself. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will work with you collaboratively to assist with managing and improving your quality of life. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. My services include evaluating, diagnosing, and treating tailored to the individual as a whole, including medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide individualized, holistic, high-quality care tailored to you, driven with care and compassion.
Are you trying to find solace in your life? Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Are you having issues with day-to-day functioning? I aim to help you help yourself. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will work with you collaboratively to assist with managing and improving your quality of life. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and ADHD. My services include evaluating, diagnosing, and treating tailored to the individual as a whole, including medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide individualized, holistic, high-quality care tailored to you, driven with care and compassion.
(318) 531-3323 View (318) 531-3323
Photo of Ashley Pollard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Baton Rouge, LA
Ashley Pollard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70802  (Online Only)
I have been a nurse for 15 years and am Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people with a variety of struggles, including depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, OCD and ADHD. I love to work with people of all backgrounds, but strive to offer a space space for Black/Latinx/POC, LGBTQIA+ populations. I am currently serving clients in Louisiana.
I have been a nurse for 15 years and am Board Certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I work with people with a variety of struggles, including depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, OCD and ADHD. I love to work with people of all backgrounds, but strive to offer a space space for Black/Latinx/POC, LGBTQIA+ populations. I am currently serving clients in Louisiana.
(504) 618-1401 View (504) 618-1401
Photo of Larry W Warner, Psychiatrist in Baton Rouge, LA
Larry W Warner
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Board certified psychiatrist here in the Baton Rouge area providing the highest level of mental health service. In addition to psychiatric care which includes medication management and education Dr. Warner also provides services for addition through the usage of Suboxone to those truly motivated for sobriety.
Board certified psychiatrist here in the Baton Rouge area providing the highest level of mental health service. In addition to psychiatric care which includes medication management and education Dr. Warner also provides services for addition through the usage of Suboxone to those truly motivated for sobriety.
(225) 240-7102 View (225) 240-7102

See more therapy options for Baton Rouge

Depression Psychiatrists

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 recognize 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 behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral 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.