Depression Psychiatrists in Medina, WA

Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, MD, Psychiatrist
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medina, WA 98039  (Online Only)
As an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of anxiety (social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder) and mood disorders ( depression, bipolar disorder), and trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), I bring years of experience working with patients from around the world.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
As an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of anxiety (social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder) and mood disorders ( depression, bipolar disorder), and trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), I bring years of experience working with patients from around the world.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(347) 252-9942 View (347) 252-9942
Photo of Meredith A Parr - Art of Mind Health, MPAP, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Art of Mind Health
Physician Assistant, MPAP, PA-C
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
Immediate availability for new telemedicine clients! I am a Psychiatric Clinician who gives you the keys to unlock your most vibrant life! I help adults with ADHD, anxiety/ depression, and burnout by combining prescription medication with holistic treatment modalities. Schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation through my website: www.artofmindhealth.com
Immediate availability for new telemedicine clients! I am a Psychiatric Clinician who gives you the keys to unlock your most vibrant life! I help adults with ADHD, anxiety/ depression, and burnout by combining prescription medication with holistic treatment modalities. Schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation through my website: www.artofmindhealth.com
(425) 842-3013 View (425) 842-3013
Photo of R. Alexander Padilla - Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Radiant Path Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039  (Online Only)
While I have broad experience treating patients across diagnoses, I have expertise and acumen in assisting with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients: Controlled substances like Stimulants, Suboxone and Benzodiazepines are prescribed in this practice with DEA guidelines. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers.
While I have broad experience treating patients across diagnoses, I have expertise and acumen in assisting with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Accepting New Patients: Controlled substances like Stimulants, Suboxone and Benzodiazepines are prescribed in this practice with DEA guidelines. I’m a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years’ experience in healthcare. I treat Children ages from 8 years old up and Adults with a focus on Psychiatric Medication Management. I take a “start low and go slow” approach to prescribing, paying special attention to medication potency and potential interactions with other medications prescribed by other providers.
(509) 204-8660 View (509) 204-8660
Photo of Dr. Abisola Onashile, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Abisola Onashile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
Imagine you're seeking effective treatment for issues impacting your well-being. You want support that goes beyond quick fixes—something that addresses your specific needs and goals. Whether it's managing stress, improving mood, or overcoming challenges, you're looking for a partner who can provide targeted care to help you achieve lasting results. My approach focuses on understanding your unique situation and delivering personalized treatment that empowers you to live a resilient and fulfilling life. Together, we'll navigate towards your desired outcomes, ensuring a supportive and transformative journey.
Imagine you're seeking effective treatment for issues impacting your well-being. You want support that goes beyond quick fixes—something that addresses your specific needs and goals. Whether it's managing stress, improving mood, or overcoming challenges, you're looking for a partner who can provide targeted care to help you achieve lasting results. My approach focuses on understanding your unique situation and delivering personalized treatment that empowers you to live a resilient and fulfilling life. Together, we'll navigate towards your desired outcomes, ensuring a supportive and transformative journey.
(360) 531-6483 View (360) 531-6483
Photo of Massoud Stephane, MD, Psychiatrist
Massoud Stephane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
Dr. Massoud Stephane is a Psychiatrist in Washington who has been practicing since 2019. Dr. Stephane graduated from Damascus University Medical College and was trained in neurology at La Salpeteriere in Paris, France and in psychiatry at Tufts University and Yale University. He was also a research fellow in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School where he was faculty for short time afterwards. Over his career span, he practiced psychiatry in the East Coast, Midwest, and West coast; and held professorial positions at the University of Minnesota, Indiana University and Oregon Health and Science University.
(425) 510-0200 View (425) 510-0200
Photo of Lilia Peng, ND, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lilia Peng
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039  (Online Only)
As a doctorally trained board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health. My approach is holistic and integrative, including tools such as laboratory assessment, lifestyle counseling, supportive therapy, natural treatments, and medications. I personalize treatments to the individual and work collaboratively with clients to address goals for care. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.
As a doctorally trained board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management for mental health. My approach is holistic and integrative, including tools such as laboratory assessment, lifestyle counseling, supportive therapy, natural treatments, and medications. I personalize treatments to the individual and work collaboratively with clients to address goals for care. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.
(425) 470-6421 View (425) 470-6421
Photo of Zachary Feldman, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary Feldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
(425) 276-1590 View (425) 276-1590
Photo of Dina E. McNeil - Tranquility Center for Wellness, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tranquility Center for Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medina, WA 98039  (Online Only)
As a doctorally trained, dual-board certified, Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family practice, I bring a comprehensive perspective to mental health care. I believe everyone deserves to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled that is free from fear, stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and behaviors. A combination of conventional and complementary approach to wellness, allows for whole mind-body health. I offer a supportive and confidential space for clients to explore their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, developing strategies to address your total wellness.
As a doctorally trained, dual-board certified, Nurse Practitioner in both psychiatry and family practice, I bring a comprehensive perspective to mental health care. I believe everyone deserves to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled that is free from fear, stress, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts and behaviors. A combination of conventional and complementary approach to wellness, allows for whole mind-body health. I offer a supportive and confidential space for clients to explore their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, developing strategies to address your total wellness.
(425) 552-1187 View (425) 552-1187
Photo of Sam Mathew - Angels Psychiatry, MSN, PMHNP, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angels Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
Medina, WA 98039
As a board certified mental health provider I guide clients in their mental health journeys with empathy and expertise. Through a patient-centric approach, I create a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves. By combining evidence-based therapies like psychotherapy and medication management, I empower patients to overcome challenges and achieve well-being. I am dedicated to ongoing learning, keeping up with psychiatry advancements, and collaborating with fellow healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
As a board certified mental health provider I guide clients in their mental health journeys with empathy and expertise. Through a patient-centric approach, I create a safe, non-judgmental environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves. By combining evidence-based therapies like psychotherapy and medication management, I empower patients to overcome challenges and achieve well-being. I am dedicated to ongoing learning, keeping up with psychiatry advancements, and collaborating with fellow healthcare professionals for comprehensive care. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.
(425) 537-6287 View (425) 537-6287

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Rachael Davison@ Family Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Rachael Davison@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. I enjoy working with patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. I strive to create positive and lasting change for my patients by utilizing both pharmacotherapy and holistic treatment options by understanding the biological basis of mental health disorders along with the psychosocial stressors. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Accepting New Patients. I enjoy working with patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. I strive to create positive and lasting change for my patients by utilizing both pharmacotherapy and holistic treatment options by understanding the biological basis of mental health disorders along with the psychosocial stressors. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
(206) 501-4342 View (206) 501-4342
Photo of Tasha Morris - NeuroStim TMS Bellevue, MD, Psychiatrist
NeuroStim TMS Bellevue
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
It is virtually painless, without any major side effects and represents real HOPE to be free of depression as well as medications.
PROVEN NON-DRUG TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION. We specialize in TMS Therapy, a revolutionary FDA-Approved treatment that is providing new HOPE and HEALING to thousands of patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and similar disorders. TMS is a safe and highly effective treatment that is covered by most insurances. It works by stimulating areas of the brain that are under-active in patients with severe depression, anxiety, and similar disorders. TMS provides substantial relief and even complete remission in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
It is virtually painless, without any major side effects and represents real HOPE to be free of depression as well as medications.
PROVEN NON-DRUG TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION. We specialize in TMS Therapy, a revolutionary FDA-Approved treatment that is providing new HOPE and HEALING to thousands of patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and similar disorders. TMS is a safe and highly effective treatment that is covered by most insurances. It works by stimulating areas of the brain that are under-active in patients with severe depression, anxiety, and similar disorders. TMS provides substantial relief and even complete remission in those who have not obtained benefit from medications, or prefer not to take medications for any reason.
(425) 230-5809 View (425) 230-5809
Photo of Christopher Garrity, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher Garrity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
I see patients with depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder & patients on the autism spectrum.
I partner with my patients because I believe the best healthcare decisions are made when both provider and patient work together. Reach out to me if you are looking for a voice in your own healthcare, looking for someone who thoroughly understands medications and wants to be listened to very carefully. Contact me if you need someone who understands your anxiety and depression and is willing to comprehend your unique situation. Perhaps you are looking to make a change but don't know how to make the first step. Or perhaps you are tired of feeling a certain way but don't know how to articulate your feelings. Reach out!
I see patients with depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder & patients on the autism spectrum.
I partner with my patients because I believe the best healthcare decisions are made when both provider and patient work together. Reach out to me if you are looking for a voice in your own healthcare, looking for someone who thoroughly understands medications and wants to be listened to very carefully. Contact me if you need someone who understands your anxiety and depression and is willing to comprehend your unique situation. Perhaps you are looking to make a change but don't know how to make the first step. Or perhaps you are tired of feeling a certain way but don't know how to articulate your feelings. Reach out!
(206) 312-8323 View (206) 312-8323
Photo of Frederick Duennebier - Frederick Duennebier, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Frederick Duennebier, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
(206) 208-7637 View (206) 208-7637
Photo of Sarah Sunday@ Family Psychiatry, PMNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Sunday@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
(206) 501-4342 View (206) 501-4342
Photo of Dr. Wade Reiner, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Wade Reiner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a psychiatrist (MD) - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. I partner with patients to achieve a variety of goals, whether that be treating depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving performance & functioning in relationships and work. The professional relationship that we can make can be one of trust, learning, and empowerment. I look forward to getting to know and supporting you.
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a psychiatrist (MD) - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. I partner with patients to achieve a variety of goals, whether that be treating depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving performance & functioning in relationships and work. The professional relationship that we can make can be one of trust, learning, and empowerment. I look forward to getting to know and supporting you.
(206) 486-5225 View (206) 486-5225
Photo of Dr. Mark Ellestad, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Ellestad
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
(206) 752-4681 View (206) 752-4681
Photo of Melissa Osada - Neupathway (Melissa Osada), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Neupathway (Melissa Osada)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
(425) 292-5840 View (425) 292-5840
Photo of Elizabeth Macshadiya, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Macshadiya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, and WA.
Hi, I’m Liz! Are you suffering from challenges caused by depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and more? Do you often wonder if what you are feeling or experiencing is “normal?” Let’s talk! I am an experienced, board-certified psychiatric provider who believes in treating you with respect and compassion, and encourages you to actively participate in your journey to wellness. My overall goal is for you to feel seen, heard, and have a greater overall understanding about your mental health. I focus on you as a whole person, and not just a diagnosis. I see patients ages 6+ in TX, CO, IA, MI, and WA.
(303) 647-3072 View (303) 647-3072
Photo of Becky Bay MD, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Becky Bay MD
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
We offer Spravato, an FDA approved treatment for treatment resistant depression that acts more quickly than traditional medicine.
A binnacle holds a ship's compass and keeps it stable and safe while the ship pitches and rolls. I know the world can be stormy, and strive to provide patients with the care and treatment they need to weather even the roughest patches and move towards calm waters. I chose to name my practice Binnacle Psychiatry because this represents my treatment philosophy: meet people where they are, assist them to identify their goals and provide a safe and steady harbor for them as they journey towards their goals. I offer medication management, therapy a combination of both and TMS.
We offer Spravato, an FDA approved treatment for treatment resistant depression that acts more quickly than traditional medicine.
A binnacle holds a ship's compass and keeps it stable and safe while the ship pitches and rolls. I know the world can be stormy, and strive to provide patients with the care and treatment they need to weather even the roughest patches and move towards calm waters. I chose to name my practice Binnacle Psychiatry because this represents my treatment philosophy: meet people where they are, assist them to identify their goals and provide a safe and steady harbor for them as they journey towards their goals. I offer medication management, therapy a combination of both and TMS.
(425) 598-0361 View (425) 598-0361
Photo of Jamie Kanehl, PNP-PC, PMHS, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Kanehl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC, PMHS, APRN
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
(360) 776-6604 View (360) 776-6604

See more therapy options for Medina

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.