Depression Psychiatrists in Lynnwood, WA

Photo of Simone Hall, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Simone Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
It is my intention to learn your unique story and collaborate with you on a solution-focused treatment plan incorporating the specific goals you have in mind. Currently, I am working with adults that have depressive, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma related disorders; and are devoted to their own healing and well-being. I offer iRest, an evidence-based 10-step protocol for PTSD the VA and DOD endorse. The path to healing is multimodal, balanced, & necessitates learning to integrate through acceptance, curiosity & openness. I also specialize in ketamine assisted psychotherapy, which has been used for treatment resistant depression and PTSD
It is my intention to learn your unique story and collaborate with you on a solution-focused treatment plan incorporating the specific goals you have in mind. Currently, I am working with adults that have depressive, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma related disorders; and are devoted to their own healing and well-being. I offer iRest, an evidence-based 10-step protocol for PTSD the VA and DOD endorse. The path to healing is multimodal, balanced, & necessitates learning to integrate through acceptance, curiosity & openness. I also specialize in ketamine assisted psychotherapy, which has been used for treatment resistant depression and PTSD
(425) 615-6328 View (425) 615-6328
Photo of Mercy Wainaina, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, MPH, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mercy Wainaina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, MPH, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
My particular interests and training are in using medications for: Anxiety disorder, Bipolar/mood disorder, Depression, ADHD, Post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, Substance use disorder( suboxone & Naltrexone).
Medication Management and Talk Therapy available! Telehealth & In-person available! I am doctoral prepared and board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). My experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic background. My goal is to advocate for the patients who struggle to be heard or respected and to manage mental health treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
My particular interests and training are in using medications for: Anxiety disorder, Bipolar/mood disorder, Depression, ADHD, Post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, Substance use disorder( suboxone & Naltrexone).
Medication Management and Talk Therapy available! Telehealth & In-person available! I am doctoral prepared and board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). My experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic background. My goal is to advocate for the patients who struggle to be heard or respected and to manage mental health treatment with compassion, understanding, and attention to holistic care. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
(360) 282-0077 View (360) 282-0077
Photo of Sarah Casola, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Casola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I support my patients in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma and OCD as well as other mental health disorders.
Same week appointments available. Hi there! Do you feel tired, disinterested in doing things you once loved to do? Do you have low energy, low motivation, or feel hopeless? Or maybe you have constant worry, and think about worst case scenarios or a lot of "what ifs"? If your goal is to climb out of that dark place and begin to overcome feelings of depression and anxiety because you are tired of being tired, let's work together.
I support my patients in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma and OCD as well as other mental health disorders.
Same week appointments available. Hi there! Do you feel tired, disinterested in doing things you once loved to do? Do you have low energy, low motivation, or feel hopeless? Or maybe you have constant worry, and think about worst case scenarios or a lot of "what ifs"? If your goal is to climb out of that dark place and begin to overcome feelings of depression and anxiety because you are tired of being tired, let's work together.
(253) 893-3790 View (253) 893-3790
Photo of Mick Chitchawal Sahatevasukont, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mick Chitchawal Sahatevasukont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
My specialties include managing ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression/Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Accepting new patients. We all have our own unique experiences and perspectives in life. At Perspective Psychiatric Service, I believe in creating individualized treatment plans based on your needs.
My specialties include managing ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression/Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Accepting new patients. We all have our own unique experiences and perspectives in life. At Perspective Psychiatric Service, I believe in creating individualized treatment plans based on your needs.
(206) 309-6744 View (206) 309-6744
Photo of Rozina Lakhani, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Rozina Lakhani
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
TMS stands for Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation which is one of the most technologically advanced depression treatments available.
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
TMS stands for Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation which is one of the most technologically advanced depression treatments available.
Are you suffering from Depression that is not as evident and acceptable to others like a fracture, yet way more debilitating in many ways? I can help! I am a board certified Psychiatrist ( i.e a Medical Doctor with specialization in Psychiatry) with more than 15 years of experience. Although I treat full range of psychiatric problems, I am passionate about helping people suffering from resistant Depression ( i.e depression that has not responded to at least one full trial of an antidepressant), using advanced treatments like Spravato and TMS.
(425) 654-3508 View (425) 654-3508
Photo of Ashley Cerny, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Cerny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Ashley has been in the field of mental health and psychology since 2001. She completed her her masters in nursing at University of Washington in 2011. As an ARNP she has worked in community mental health clinics serving families, chronically mentally ill adults and people struggling with addiction. In 2015 she transitioned into private practice and began her focus on women's mental health and trauma. Ashley works with women coping with anxiety disorders, trauma and complex PTSD, depression, bipolar, postpartum concerns, disordered sleep and ADHD.
Ashley has been in the field of mental health and psychology since 2001. She completed her her masters in nursing at University of Washington in 2011. As an ARNP she has worked in community mental health clinics serving families, chronically mentally ill adults and people struggling with addiction. In 2015 she transitioned into private practice and began her focus on women's mental health and trauma. Ashley works with women coping with anxiety disorders, trauma and complex PTSD, depression, bipolar, postpartum concerns, disordered sleep and ADHD.
(360) 205-4560 View (360) 205-4560
Photo of Heather Siegel, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse
Heather Siegel
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNM
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorder.
As a psychiatric medication prescriber, I work with children, teens, and adults. I see all psychiatric complaints, including depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and psychosis. I focus on listening to the patient, thorough care, and helping the patient to live the best life they can live. As a certified nurse midwife, I remain committed to providing high quality mental health care to pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding moms. I do not prescribe ongoing benzodiazepines for anxiety or sleep.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorder.
As a psychiatric medication prescriber, I work with children, teens, and adults. I see all psychiatric complaints, including depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and psychosis. I focus on listening to the patient, thorough care, and helping the patient to live the best life they can live. As a certified nurse midwife, I remain committed to providing high quality mental health care to pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding moms. I do not prescribe ongoing benzodiazepines for anxiety or sleep.
(206) 535-1674 View (206) 535-1674
Photo of Kathleen Kenny, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Kenny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I am experienced in managing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD as well as perinatal and postpartum mental health.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management and supportive therapy for individuals 18+. Prior to specializing in mental health, I practiced as a Certified Nurse Midwife for 20 years in public health and in the department of Maternal Fetal Medicine at the University of Washington and Swedish Medical Center in Seattle. My experience working with women and their families instilled a passion for maternal mental health and inspired me to seek advanced training in perinatal and postpartum mood disorders. I am a certified prescriber by Postpartum Support International.
I am experienced in managing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and PTSD as well as perinatal and postpartum mental health.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management and supportive therapy for individuals 18+. Prior to specializing in mental health, I practiced as a Certified Nurse Midwife for 20 years in public health and in the department of Maternal Fetal Medicine at the University of Washington and Swedish Medical Center in Seattle. My experience working with women and their families instilled a passion for maternal mental health and inspired me to seek advanced training in perinatal and postpartum mood disorders. I am a certified prescriber by Postpartum Support International.
(425) 532-5760 View (425) 532-5760
Photo of Amy Zachara, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Zachara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and mental health care for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, eating disorders, relationship issues and adjustment to life changes. I have worked with patients from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of mental health challenges. I help to identify goals and a treatment plan to address each individual's needs. I have prescriptive authority and follow evidence-based practice.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management and mental health care for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, eating disorders, relationship issues and adjustment to life changes. I have worked with patients from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of mental health challenges. I help to identify goals and a treatment plan to address each individual's needs. I have prescriptive authority and follow evidence-based practice.
(425) 528-8318 View (425) 528-8318
Photo of Dr. Mercy Omijie, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Mercy Omijie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I offer online or in-person psychiatry services for treatments of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD & more.
Accepting New Client in Washington State! I am a doctoral prepared & board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the evaluation, diagnosis, & treatment of various psychiatric disorders in individuals of all ages. My approach to assessment is comprehensive & whole-person focused. I take my time to know each of my clients & to address their specific needs. I understand that everyone has their own unique psychological, biological, social & cultural factors that influence their mental health. I consider each of these components when formulating assessments & developing collaborative treatment plans with my clients.
I offer online or in-person psychiatry services for treatments of Depression, Anxiety, ADHD & more.
Accepting New Client in Washington State! I am a doctoral prepared & board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the evaluation, diagnosis, & treatment of various psychiatric disorders in individuals of all ages. My approach to assessment is comprehensive & whole-person focused. I take my time to know each of my clients & to address their specific needs. I understand that everyone has their own unique psychological, biological, social & cultural factors that influence their mental health. I consider each of these components when formulating assessments & developing collaborative treatment plans with my clients.
(480) 765-9955 View (480) 765-9955
Photo of Gagandeep Mundi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gagandeep Mundi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who graduated from chamberlain university. as I worked as a nurse for 6 years with mental health clients, inpatients, and outpatients. are you struggling with your mental health, we are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. we treat clients with ADHD, Depression, anxiety, bipolar, and many more. my goal is to help my clients where they at, and what they want and we will work together to reach their goals. we are accepting new clients, we are working with most of the insurance.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who graduated from chamberlain university. as I worked as a nurse for 6 years with mental health clients, inpatients, and outpatients. are you struggling with your mental health, we are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. we treat clients with ADHD, Depression, anxiety, bipolar, and many more. my goal is to help my clients where they at, and what they want and we will work together to reach their goals. we are accepting new clients, we are working with most of the insurance.
(425) 534-7221 View (425) 534-7221
Photo of George Attobrah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George Attobrah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Very experience in treating conditions like Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Addictions,Schizophrenia etc.
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
Very experience in treating conditions like Depression, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Addictions,Schizophrenia etc.
I offer quality and affordable mental/psychiatric services to adolescent and adult patients. I believe the foundation to living and maintaining a healthy living is your mental health. I take time to listen to each patient to understand their unique needs to come up with an effective treatment plan
(253) 480-6819 View (253) 480-6819
Photo of Jozette Bell - Starfire Psychiatry, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Starfire Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Jozette Bell, a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Mountlake Terrace. I work with folks 16+ via in-person or telemedicine. I can help you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, perinatal concerns, and difficulties with other life transitions. I’m passionate about serving members of the LGBTQ+ community, new parents who may be struggling with the transition to parenthood including non-gestational parents, and members of the poly and kink community. I have advanced training in ADHD and perinatal mood disorders. If you prefer, you can even schedule your own appointment at starfirepsychiatry.com/schedule
Hi! I'm Jozette Bell, a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Mountlake Terrace. I work with folks 16+ via in-person or telemedicine. I can help you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, perinatal concerns, and difficulties with other life transitions. I’m passionate about serving members of the LGBTQ+ community, new parents who may be struggling with the transition to parenthood including non-gestational parents, and members of the poly and kink community. I have advanced training in ADHD and perinatal mood disorders. If you prefer, you can even schedule your own appointment at starfirepsychiatry.com/schedule
(425) 358-3087 View (425) 358-3087
Photo of Linette Mauya, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linette Mauya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Specialized in ADHD evaluation and treatment I also treat anxiety , depression , bipolar , OCD by medication and therapy using solution focused therapy and CBT.
Taking new patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Washington. l believe in a holistic approach, meaning I provide the support that looks at the whole person, not just their mental health needs. The treatment plan that I develop with you will take into consideration your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. This holistic approach is crucial in addressing the primary cause of your problem rather than just addressing your symptoms and helping to find a long-term solution to existing illness while letting you as the patient take control of your treatment.
Specialized in ADHD evaluation and treatment I also treat anxiety , depression , bipolar , OCD by medication and therapy using solution focused therapy and CBT.
Taking new patients! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of Washington. l believe in a holistic approach, meaning I provide the support that looks at the whole person, not just their mental health needs. The treatment plan that I develop with you will take into consideration your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. This holistic approach is crucial in addressing the primary cause of your problem rather than just addressing your symptoms and helping to find a long-term solution to existing illness while letting you as the patient take control of your treatment.
(360) 348-1048 View (360) 348-1048
Photo of Mishele M Rutherford, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mishele M Rutherford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Psychiatric care including medication management, treatment of Substance Use Disorders and therapy. In person and telehealth available. My approach is collaborative, trauma aware and person centered. I believe that individuals know themselves best and have found that creating a therapeutic partnership is the most effective path towards healing and wellness. In my experience, all people have phases in their lives where they would benefit from a partnership with a psychiatric provider.
Psychiatric care including medication management, treatment of Substance Use Disorders and therapy. In person and telehealth available. My approach is collaborative, trauma aware and person centered. I believe that individuals know themselves best and have found that creating a therapeutic partnership is the most effective path towards healing and wellness. In my experience, all people have phases in their lives where they would benefit from a partnership with a psychiatric provider.
(425) 403-2578 View (425) 403-2578
Photo of Dr. Bridgette Jeffries, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Bridgette Jeffries
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
I am doctorally prepared from the University of Washington and board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Additionally, as a nurse of 30 years, my experience covers a broad spectrum of providing a multitude of services to individuals and families from all walks of life and economic backgrounds. As a board certified PMHNP, my practice will focus on providing services from the adolescent years throughout the life span. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and enhance you with tools that will be life changing. We will collaborate together to identify the best holistic approach.
(206) 795-7388 View (206) 795-7388
Photo of Zachary Mangum, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zachary Mangum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98037
Zach works with his clients to understand their experience and collaboratively determine treatment options. Education & Experience (including licensure, schools, former work experience): Zach earned his BSN at University of Washington, Bothell, earned his MSN at Gonzaga University Inpatient psychiatry settings for 10+ years treating the full spectrum of mental health diagnoses. Zach enjoys Travel, Pickleball, Sports, and being a Foster Parent.
Zach works with his clients to understand their experience and collaboratively determine treatment options. Education & Experience (including licensure, schools, former work experience): Zach earned his BSN at University of Washington, Bothell, earned his MSN at Gonzaga University Inpatient psychiatry settings for 10+ years treating the full spectrum of mental health diagnoses. Zach enjoys Travel, Pickleball, Sports, and being a Foster Parent.
(425) 406-3616 View (425) 406-3616
Photo of Emmanuel Nwabude - Denmind Psychiatric Solutions PLLC, ARNP, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denmind Psychiatric Solutions PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
(425) 659-2850 View (425) 659-2850
Photo of Erin Kessler, MSN, MA, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Erin Kessler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MA, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is dedicated to partnering with women to support them on their path to mental wellness. My approach is integrative, utilizing my training in psychopharmacology as well as my interest in complementary and alternative medicine. I truly believe individuals are the experts on themselves and seek to create personalized, sustainable and comprehensive treatment plans with the women I work with.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is dedicated to partnering with women to support them on their path to mental wellness. My approach is integrative, utilizing my training in psychopharmacology as well as my interest in complementary and alternative medicine. I truly believe individuals are the experts on themselves and seek to create personalized, sustainable and comprehensive treatment plans with the women I work with.
(206) 785-2087 View (206) 785-2087
Photo of Se Won Min, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Se Won Min
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am a doctorally prepared advanced practice registered nurse (ARNP). I received a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Washington. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I pursued my studies in the field of mental health because I wanted to give patients more individualized psychiatric care and positively impact their lives in holistic ways. In my practice, I practice psychiatry with strong emphasis on patient well-being, evidence-based practice and treatment plan that incorporates the goals and needs of her patients.
I am a doctorally prepared advanced practice registered nurse (ARNP). I received a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Washington. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I pursued my studies in the field of mental health because I wanted to give patients more individualized psychiatric care and positively impact their lives in holistic ways. In my practice, I practice psychiatry with strong emphasis on patient well-being, evidence-based practice and treatment plan that incorporates the goals and needs of her patients.
(425) 532-4820 View (425) 532-4820
1
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.