Depression Psychiatrists in Hickory, NC

Photo of Jennifer Carner, PHHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Carner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
Jenn is a Board Certified PMHNP who attended Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. She received a Doctorate of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner degree. She has years of experience working as a psychiatric nurse in various settings with children, adolescents, and adults. Working with children and adolescents in inpatient, residential, and educational settings such as day treatment has given her experience with ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, substance use, and other mood disorders. She has understanding, compassion, and experience working with and educating families and adults about LGBTQ+ youth.
(828) 888-0796 View (828) 888-0796
Photo of Hannah Shay, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Shay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a provider at Stella who is passionate about providing exceptional care. My expertise include trauma-focused care for childhood, domestic violence, sexual abuse survivors, and military personnel. At Stella Center, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
Hello, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a provider at Stella who is passionate about providing exceptional care. My expertise include trauma-focused care for childhood, domestic violence, sexual abuse survivors, and military personnel. At Stella Center, my main responsibility is to provide medical and biopsychosocial assessments to guide your care journey. We treat mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion, and more.
(706) 989-9483 View (706) 989-9483
Photo of Amanda Ward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
(828) 544-5101 View (828) 544-5101
Photo of Melissa Di Natale, EdD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa Di Natale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, I provide personalized care to help you navigate.
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, I provide personalized care to help you navigate.
Now accepting new clients! Melissa Di Natale, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in North Carolina, offers medication management and therapy services. With a BSN and MSN from Keuka College, Penn Yan, New York, and a PMHNP Post-Master's Certificate from Maryville University. Holding an EdD from St. John Fisher College, Rochester, New York, her research focused on incivility's impact on hospital-based student nurses. With extensive experience across various settings, Melissa provides tailored expert care to children, adolescents, and adults.
(828) 471-9234 View (828) 471-9234
Photo of Gina Varalli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gina Varalli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Specializing in various areas, I offer support for a spectrum of mental health challenges, including Depression, Hyperactive Disorder, Stress Management, Panic Attacks, and Phobias.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on elevating mental well-being. My dedication to healing propels my practice and includes over 15 years’ experience in healthcare with 7 years’ experience in mental health exclusively. I have worked with patients from ages 6 and up, with a wide range of psychiatric needs. My approach is patient-centered and inclusive of individuals, reflecting my belief in addressing mental health comprehensively.
Specializing in various areas, I offer support for a spectrum of mental health challenges, including Depression, Hyperactive Disorder, Stress Management, Panic Attacks, and Phobias.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner focused on elevating mental well-being. My dedication to healing propels my practice and includes over 15 years’ experience in healthcare with 7 years’ experience in mental health exclusively. I have worked with patients from ages 6 and up, with a wide range of psychiatric needs. My approach is patient-centered and inclusive of individuals, reflecting my belief in addressing mental health comprehensively.
(828) 604-7196 View (828) 604-7196
Photo of Dr. Derek C Ayers, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Derek C Ayers
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
(336) 948-9249 View (336) 948-9249
Photo of Taylor Ballew, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taylor Ballew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
NOW accepting new clients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in the state of North Carolina. I offer both medication management and therapy. At Aspire Psychiatry, I offer both in- person and telehealth appointments. Dealing with my own depression and anxiety has made me passionate about ensuring everyone has access to cutting edge treatments for mental health issues. I'm proud to offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS); a revolutionary new treatment for depression.
NOW accepting new clients! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) licensed in the state of North Carolina. I offer both medication management and therapy. At Aspire Psychiatry, I offer both in- person and telehealth appointments. Dealing with my own depression and anxiety has made me passionate about ensuring everyone has access to cutting edge treatments for mental health issues. I'm proud to offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS); a revolutionary new treatment for depression.
(828) 544-5101 View (828) 544-5101
Photo of Dr. Caleb Whitenack, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Caleb Whitenack
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
I specialize in psychiatry with an emphasis on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment for depression, OCD, and anxiety.
I treat patients who are facing mental health challenges, like ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder as well as mental health issues specific to women. Patients are usually looking for relief from overwhelming symptoms, a deeper understanding of their emotions, and a pathway to healing. Their ultimate goal is not just survival but to thrive—to rediscover stability, boost self-esteem, and reclaim a life filled with purpose and joy.
I specialize in psychiatry with an emphasis on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment for depression, OCD, and anxiety.
I treat patients who are facing mental health challenges, like ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder as well as mental health issues specific to women. Patients are usually looking for relief from overwhelming symptoms, a deeper understanding of their emotions, and a pathway to healing. Their ultimate goal is not just survival but to thrive—to rediscover stability, boost self-esteem, and reclaim a life filled with purpose and joy.
(919) 261-3543 View (919) 261-3543
Photo of Barbara Goodman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Barbara graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC. She has 26 years of psychiatric nursing experience working in various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric facilities. She earned her MSN at Walden University Minneapolis, MN. She has experience working with patients with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, autism, and ADHD. Barbara is passionate about providing compassionate care and support for sexual and gender minorities.
Barbara graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC. She has 26 years of psychiatric nursing experience working in various healthcare settings, including inpatient psychiatric facilities. She earned her MSN at Walden University Minneapolis, MN. She has experience working with patients with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, autism, and ADHD. Barbara is passionate about providing compassionate care and support for sexual and gender minorities.
(336) 800-1704 View (336) 800-1704
Photo of Lane Thompson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lane Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
Prior to becoming a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Lane Thompson worked as a psychiatric nurse in inpatient and outpatient settings. He received his masters degree in nursing from The University of North Carolina Wilmington. Following his MSN he completed his post masters psychiatric certificate at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Mr Thompson is a military veteran and has worked as a firefighter, medical evacuation technician and flight nurse for the North Carolina Air National Guard for over 24 years. He also serves his community by being an active volunteer firefighter.
(336) 443-6247 View (336) 443-6247
Photo of Davette Patterson-Yount, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Davette Patterson-Yount
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Davette is a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of NC. She graduated from Winston Salem State University in Winston Salem NC with her family medicine studies and from Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston SC with her psychiatric study. Davette has over 18 years of nursing experience in cardiology, psychiatry, and family practice. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages.
Davette is a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of NC. She graduated from Winston Salem State University in Winston Salem NC with her family medicine studies and from Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston SC with her psychiatric study. Davette has over 18 years of nursing experience in cardiology, psychiatry, and family practice. Her current specialty focuses on family psychiatry across all ages.
(828) 929-0797 View (828) 929-0797
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Hu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jennifer Hu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
Now accepting new patients! I am a double board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Hickory, North Carolina. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School and child/adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Duke University. I am currently accepting new patients and have immediate availability. I typically see ages 5-35 years (I will sometimes make exceptions to this, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions). Call our office to schedule and leave a message - our staff will return your call ASAP.
Now accepting new patients! I am a double board-certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Hickory, North Carolina. I completed adult psychiatry residency at Cambridge Health Alliance/Harvard Medical School and child/adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Duke University. I am currently accepting new patients and have immediate availability. I typically see ages 5-35 years (I will sometimes make exceptions to this, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions). Call our office to schedule and leave a message - our staff will return your call ASAP.
(828) 392-9893 View (828) 392-9893
Photo of Kashea Moser, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kashea Moser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
KaShea, PMHNP-BC graduated with a master’s from Maryville University in Saint Louis Missouri. Prior to Nurse Practitioner school, she received her BSN from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Kashea has experience in assisting individuals with serious and persistent mental illnesses in the outpatient and community setting. She believes in meeting people where they are to provide hope, support, and compassion. Kashea also lives by the golden rule and treats everyone with respect. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and attending sporting events.
KaShea, PMHNP-BC graduated with a master’s from Maryville University in Saint Louis Missouri. Prior to Nurse Practitioner school, she received her BSN from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Kashea has experience in assisting individuals with serious and persistent mental illnesses in the outpatient and community setting. She believes in meeting people where they are to provide hope, support, and compassion. Kashea also lives by the golden rule and treats everyone with respect. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and attending sporting events.
(336) 810-1629 View (336) 810-1629
Photo of Casey Watson, FNP , PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Casey Watson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice located in Charlotte, NC that provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Online and in person appointments available for adults 21+. Casey is dual board certified as a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Casey has over 17 years in the medical field. Casey sees each patient as an individual and not your disorder. As a team, we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
Revitalize Psychiatry is a mental health practice located in Charlotte, NC that provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Online and in person appointments available for adults 21+. Casey is dual board certified as a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family medicine. Casey has over 17 years in the medical field. Casey sees each patient as an individual and not your disorder. As a team, we will design a customized and comprehensive care plan for your continued care.
(704) 666-4042 View (704) 666-4042

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Brittany Vasquez, MD, Psychiatrist
Brittany Vasquez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Brittany Vasquez and I am dual board certified as an adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of young adults (<35 yo), teens, and children who may need help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment, trauma (childhood), autism spectrum disorder, and emerging longer term mood and psychotic disorders. Originally from Appalachia and having returned home, I am excited to be starting private practice at the established and historic Carolina Mountain Psychiatry.
(828) 471-9272 View (828) 471-9272
Photo of Maria MacDougall, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria MacDougall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I have a wide range of experience in private practice with adult patients treating depression, anxiety disorders, and attention challenges.
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
I have a wide range of experience in private practice with adult patients treating depression, anxiety disorders, and attention challenges.
Maria MacDougall is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing psychiatric evaluation and medication management services. After working at a psychiatric facility as an inpatient nurse, she entered and graduated from the nurse practitioner program at Anderson University. She is currently accepting new patients at Amica Mental Health, a practice based in Asheville that serves Western North Carolina. She specializes in medication management for adults.
(828) 332-5291 View (828) 332-5291
Photo of Tesheika Boomer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tesheika Boomer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I'm here to help individuals suffering from various issues, such as depression and anxiety.
Hi, I'm Tesheika. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work and life that you have to juggle? Do you find it hard to maintain your health and relationships? Are you having a difficult time being yourself?
I'm here to help individuals suffering from various issues, such as depression and anxiety.
Hi, I'm Tesheika. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work and life that you have to juggle? Do you find it hard to maintain your health and relationships? Are you having a difficult time being yourself?
(704) 228-4451 View (704) 228-4451
Photo of Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard), CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant
Lynn A. Dana (Formerly Howard)
Physician Assistant, CAQ-PSY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I offer specialized care for issues like ADHD, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal and postpartum depression, PMS / PMDD, and perimenopause.
Feeling scattered, anxious, or just not like yourself? You’re not alone, even if it feels that way. I offer support through medication management, supportive talk therapy, and integrative recommendations. I specialize in helping women and the elderly, ages 18 and up, blending spiritual guidance with professional care to support your mental health.
I offer specialized care for issues like ADHD, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal and postpartum depression, PMS / PMDD, and perimenopause.
Feeling scattered, anxious, or just not like yourself? You’re not alone, even if it feels that way. I offer support through medication management, supportive talk therapy, and integrative recommendations. I specialize in helping women and the elderly, ages 18 and up, blending spiritual guidance with professional care to support your mental health.
(828) 525-9815 View (828) 525-9815
Photo of Rashonda Wilson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rashonda Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy for patients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep disturbances, and many more.
Are you tired of feeling down, and depressed with low to no motivation? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts and/or trouble sleeping? Are you or a loved one struggling with staying on task, focusing, or remembering things? What about experiencing some increased stress and needing help with coping skills? No worries! I am here to help! My name is Rashonda Wilson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed by the State of North Carolina and board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
I provide medication management and brief psychotherapy for patients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, sleep disturbances, and many more.
Are you tired of feeling down, and depressed with low to no motivation? Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts and/or trouble sleeping? Are you or a loved one struggling with staying on task, focusing, or remembering things? What about experiencing some increased stress and needing help with coping skills? No worries! I am here to help! My name is Rashonda Wilson, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed by the State of North Carolina and board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
(980) 983-5591 View (980) 983-5591
Photo of Nicole Thompson, PMHNP, LCSW, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I specialize in a variety of conditions, including patients as young as 3 and through the lifespan, special needs, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, substance abuse, trauma, and ADHD, among others.
Seeking mental health treatment is an important dimension to your overall health, and I'm honored that you've chosen me to accompany you on this journey towards a happier, healthier you. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I'm committed to understanding your unique challenges and working together to achieve your mental wellness goals. Whatever the struggle, I will meet you where you are and according to your timeline.
I specialize in a variety of conditions, including patients as young as 3 and through the lifespan, special needs, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, substance abuse, trauma, and ADHD, among others.
Seeking mental health treatment is an important dimension to your overall health, and I'm honored that you've chosen me to accompany you on this journey towards a happier, healthier you. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I'm committed to understanding your unique challenges and working together to achieve your mental wellness goals. Whatever the struggle, I will meet you where you are and according to your timeline.
(980) 372-6662 View (980) 372-6662
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.