Depression Therapists in Spenard, Anchorage, AK

Photo of Winnie Bien Aime, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Winnie Bien Aime
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Winnie, and my passion is helping teenage girls and women with anxiety and depression thrive. Do you struggle with insecurities, negative thoughts, self-doubt, and anxious thoughts that often leave you feeling crippled and paralyzed? I get it because I've been there. I know what it's like to feel misunderstood and feel like no one else gets me. I know what it's like to feel invalidated. As a mom and military spouse, I also understand the challenges that come with parenting and constant changes. Navigating anxiety and depression on your own is difficult. And finding a therapist who can relate to you is very important.
Hi! I'm Winnie, and my passion is helping teenage girls and women with anxiety and depression thrive. Do you struggle with insecurities, negative thoughts, self-doubt, and anxious thoughts that often leave you feeling crippled and paralyzed? I get it because I've been there. I know what it's like to feel misunderstood and feel like no one else gets me. I know what it's like to feel invalidated. As a mom and military spouse, I also understand the challenges that come with parenting and constant changes. Navigating anxiety and depression on your own is difficult. And finding a therapist who can relate to you is very important.
(337) 221-4596 View (337) 221-4596
Photo of Kelvin J Pace, Counselor in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Kelvin J Pace
Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CST-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
In private practice I work with young adults, families, and couples to navigate issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and sexual issues.
As a therapist, I believe that lasting change comes from the inside. I view therapy as a guide post to help individuals, couples, and families navigate difficult situations and to discover their inner strength and potential. I believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental, and relaxed atmosphere to create a therapeutic alliance to help you attain your goals. For the past 7 years I have worked with children, families, and young adults from various backgrounds and life situations dealing with a wide range of complex issues such as; trauma, depression, anxiety, developing healthy relationships, and sexual issues
In private practice I work with young adults, families, and couples to navigate issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and sexual issues.
As a therapist, I believe that lasting change comes from the inside. I view therapy as a guide post to help individuals, couples, and families navigate difficult situations and to discover their inner strength and potential. I believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental, and relaxed atmosphere to create a therapeutic alliance to help you attain your goals. For the past 7 years I have worked with children, families, and young adults from various backgrounds and life situations dealing with a wide range of complex issues such as; trauma, depression, anxiety, developing healthy relationships, and sexual issues
(833) 796-3525 View (833) 796-3525
Photo of Amy L Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Amy L Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
People seek out therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes it's an overwhelming sense of loneliness or lack of direction. Often it's a result of major life changes, loss, psychological injuries, or specific issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or grief. I offer a private, safe, and confidential environment for you to explore your concerns, find relief and to bring joy and passion back into your life. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery, healing and wellness!
People seek out therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes it's an overwhelming sense of loneliness or lack of direction. Often it's a result of major life changes, loss, psychological injuries, or specific issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or grief. I offer a private, safe, and confidential environment for you to explore your concerns, find relief and to bring joy and passion back into your life. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery, healing and wellness!
(855) 914-2735 View (855) 914-2735
Photo of Uliana Fleener, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Uliana Fleener
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99517
“Life is not about how many times you fall down. It’s about how many times you get back up.”- Jaime Escalante. Do you remember what it feels like to live your life to the fullest? Greet every day with a smile, knowing that you're going to be OK no matter what life throws at you? To feel content in your essence and in your body? I work with clients who feel like they have lost "pieces of themselves" along the way during difficult/traumatic childhood or life events, grief, break-ups/divorces/ abusive relationships, struggles with depression, anxiety, phobias, attachment traumas etc.
“Life is not about how many times you fall down. It’s about how many times you get back up.”- Jaime Escalante. Do you remember what it feels like to live your life to the fullest? Greet every day with a smile, knowing that you're going to be OK no matter what life throws at you? To feel content in your essence and in your body? I work with clients who feel like they have lost "pieces of themselves" along the way during difficult/traumatic childhood or life events, grief, break-ups/divorces/ abusive relationships, struggles with depression, anxiety, phobias, attachment traumas etc.
(907) 830-8262 View (907) 830-8262
Photo of Katie Kajdan Bell, Counselor in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Katie Kajdan Bell
Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503
Waitlist for new clients
An LPC and registered Art Therapist, I provide clinically rooted, creative interventions. I specialize in treating adolescents as well as adults, providing support and help through many issues including: eating disorders, anxiety, depression, social pressures, self-harm, PTSD, and ADHD. The therapeutic approaches I use are well suited to working with many ages and needs, providing ways to process and communicate your experiences as well as learn skills to better navigate your world. Whether you are experiencing long term emotional or psychiatric pain, or the challenges of the complexity of life, I look forward to working with you.
An LPC and registered Art Therapist, I provide clinically rooted, creative interventions. I specialize in treating adolescents as well as adults, providing support and help through many issues including: eating disorders, anxiety, depression, social pressures, self-harm, PTSD, and ADHD. The therapeutic approaches I use are well suited to working with many ages and needs, providing ways to process and communicate your experiences as well as learn skills to better navigate your world. Whether you are experiencing long term emotional or psychiatric pain, or the challenges of the complexity of life, I look forward to working with you.
(907) 331-6715 View (907) 331-6715
Photo of Thriving Within, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Thriving Within, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CDC
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99504  (Online Only)
Thriving Within, LLC serves ALL individuals and families, adolescents and adults, who experience depression, anxiety, psychiatric symptoms, trauma response and/or substance misuse.
Feeling stuck? Paralyzed? Unsure what to do or where to go next? That everything is an effort? Thriving Within, LLC is available for counseling and mental health services. Thriving comes from an individualized approach centered on you and your strengths. Using a client centered, healing-centered-engagement process, we connect people to their internal and external resources. We have a variety of services to meet your needs.
Thriving Within, LLC serves ALL individuals and families, adolescents and adults, who experience depression, anxiety, psychiatric symptoms, trauma response and/or substance misuse.
Feeling stuck? Paralyzed? Unsure what to do or where to go next? That everything is an effort? Thriving Within, LLC is available for counseling and mental health services. Thriving comes from an individualized approach centered on you and your strengths. Using a client centered, healing-centered-engagement process, we connect people to their internal and external resources. We have a variety of services to meet your needs.
(907) 268-4234 View (907) 268-4234
Photo of Empowering Wellness & Recovery LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Empowering Wellness & Recovery LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
People seek therapy for various reasons including life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or perhaps seeking to find understanding of their current circumstances. Perhaps you feel like your life is unraveling while anxiety, depression, and uncertainty have taken over. Maybe your symptoms have become unmanageable making day to day tasks increasingly difficult. If you are seeking to reduce the negative impacts of symptoms, acquire insight, awareness, and clarity, get unstuck and/or find your purpose, I can help.
People seek therapy for various reasons including life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or perhaps seeking to find understanding of their current circumstances. Perhaps you feel like your life is unraveling while anxiety, depression, and uncertainty have taken over. Maybe your symptoms have become unmanageable making day to day tasks increasingly difficult. If you are seeking to reduce the negative impacts of symptoms, acquire insight, awareness, and clarity, get unstuck and/or find your purpose, I can help.
(907) 318-7331 View (907) 318-7331
Photo of L Renée Leftwich-Render, Pre-Licensed Professional in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
L Renée Leftwich-Render
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Renee Leftwich-Render, I am a mental health therapist who works with individuals and couples who want to work through the challenges of life to discover their authentic selves. I counsel those battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem and image issues, post-traumatic stress, grief, women’s issues, and multicultural challenges. Life can throw you for a loop, can't it?! Can you remember a time in your life when you were truly content and happy? It was like everything was aligning in your world then life.
Hi, I am Renee Leftwich-Render, I am a mental health therapist who works with individuals and couples who want to work through the challenges of life to discover their authentic selves. I counsel those battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem and image issues, post-traumatic stress, grief, women’s issues, and multicultural challenges. Life can throw you for a loop, can't it?! Can you remember a time in your life when you were truly content and happy? It was like everything was aligning in your world then life.
(907) 318-7249 View (907) 318-7249
Photo of Raphael Martins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Raphael Martins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Mental health disorders, especially anxiety and depression, are some of the most significant public health problems facing the world today. Depression is now the leading cause of disability around the world, with chronic stress being the main cause of these conditions. Fortunately, depression, anxiety and many other mental health conditions, properly diagnosed and treated can be stabilized and cured, allowing those who suffer them to return to their normal routine and enjoy a healthier and happier life. I am a therapist with more than 15 years of experience in the mental health field including residential, hospital and outpatient.
Mental health disorders, especially anxiety and depression, are some of the most significant public health problems facing the world today. Depression is now the leading cause of disability around the world, with chronic stress being the main cause of these conditions. Fortunately, depression, anxiety and many other mental health conditions, properly diagnosed and treated can be stabilized and cured, allowing those who suffer them to return to their normal routine and enjoy a healthier and happier life. I am a therapist with more than 15 years of experience in the mental health field including residential, hospital and outpatient.
(907) 891-8789 View (907) 891-8789
Photo of Mike Blakey, Psychologist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Mike Blakey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503
I work at Greatland Clinical Associates located in Anchorage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive, respectful and collaborative therapeutic environment where you can fully explore your concerns, challenges, and values. I support the humanistic principles that people are best helped by a therapist who is psychologically present and establishes a therapeutic environment that is accepting, empathic, and authentic. The relationship the client and therapist build is itself an important agent of change and therefore, is an integral part of the therapy focus.
I work at Greatland Clinical Associates located in Anchorage. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive, respectful and collaborative therapeutic environment where you can fully explore your concerns, challenges, and values. I support the humanistic principles that people are best helped by a therapist who is psychologically present and establishes a therapeutic environment that is accepting, empathic, and authentic. The relationship the client and therapist build is itself an important agent of change and therefore, is an integral part of the therapy focus.
(907) 929-4009 View (907) 929-4009
Photo of Sevilla I. Love, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Sevilla I. Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
I specialize in grief and loss and unbiasedly see people from all backgrounds all over Alaska. Perhaps a loved one died and your world's forever changed. Are you a Helping or High-risk-career professional who's witnessed too much? Maybe you spiritually struggle with feeling cheated when you got handed a life you didn't ask or plan for. The loss is recent, the pain is acute and you can't afford to fold! Your loss happened long ago and you're finally ready to explore it's effects on your life.
I specialize in grief and loss and unbiasedly see people from all backgrounds all over Alaska. Perhaps a loved one died and your world's forever changed. Are you a Helping or High-risk-career professional who's witnessed too much? Maybe you spiritually struggle with feeling cheated when you got handed a life you didn't ask or plan for. The loss is recent, the pain is acute and you can't afford to fold! Your loss happened long ago and you're finally ready to explore it's effects on your life.
(907) 308-2351 View (907) 308-2351
Photo of Macrina Dunaway, Pre-Licensed Professional in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Macrina Dunaway
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99507  (Online Only)
You've always believed that worrying was a choice. If you were just motivated enough you could stop yourself from spiraling. Sadness is a mindset. You could push through the shadows and darkness if you would just try a little harder. But now it's like these emotions have taken you hostage and are creeping into every part of your life. The strategies that you relied on to keep yourself in check aren't working like they used to. You feel lost without a clear way forward. The shame of allowing yourself to go unchecked is physically and emotionally exhausting. It's a daily game of trying to act ok and hold it together. It's crushing.
You've always believed that worrying was a choice. If you were just motivated enough you could stop yourself from spiraling. Sadness is a mindset. You could push through the shadows and darkness if you would just try a little harder. But now it's like these emotions have taken you hostage and are creeping into every part of your life. The strategies that you relied on to keep yourself in check aren't working like they used to. You feel lost without a clear way forward. The shame of allowing yourself to go unchecked is physically and emotionally exhausting. It's a daily game of trying to act ok and hold it together. It's crushing.
(907) 444-4526 View (907) 444-4526
Photo of Caroline Blair, Psychologist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Caroline Blair
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
(844) 407-2123 View (844) 407-2123
Photo of Shawna Fox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Shawna Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Being human is difficult. But you don't have to do it alone. I am here to offer support as a "fellow traveler" in life and therapy. None of us thrive in isolation. I view therapy, in part, as helping people make sense of being human. I aim to provide a safe space so clients can show up authentically and feel seen, heard, and understood along the way.
Being human is difficult. But you don't have to do it alone. I am here to offer support as a "fellow traveler" in life and therapy. None of us thrive in isolation. I view therapy, in part, as helping people make sense of being human. I aim to provide a safe space so clients can show up authentically and feel seen, heard, and understood along the way.
(844) 997-1847 View (844) 997-1847
Photo of Chris Reynolds, Psychologist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Chris Reynolds
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503
My style as a therapist can best be described as eclectic, as I draw from a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations. That being said I tend to be highly client centered, which means I assume clients are the authorities about their own systems. In therapy, it's my job to describe what the science of psychology has to offer given the presenting problem and my professional experience in the area. However, it's my clients who get to decide how this information is applicable to their lives. More about my therapeutic orientation can be found on my website: www.reynoldstherapy.com
My style as a therapist can best be described as eclectic, as I draw from a variety of techniques and theoretical orientations. That being said I tend to be highly client centered, which means I assume clients are the authorities about their own systems. In therapy, it's my job to describe what the science of psychology has to offer given the presenting problem and my professional experience in the area. However, it's my clients who get to decide how this information is applicable to their lives. More about my therapeutic orientation can be found on my website: www.reynoldstherapy.com
(907) 279-9274 View (907) 279-9274
Photo of Allen Blair, Psychologist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Allen Blair
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503
As the former clinical director of a community behavioral health in Anchorage, I have experience providing therapy to a range of ages including: children, youth, families and adults experiencing a variety of challenges. I work with youth who experience disruptive behaviors, acting out, and substance use. I provide care to individuals who have experienced trauma/ abuse, mood disorders, and the autism spectrum. I also provide forensic psychological evaluations for the court, and neuropsychological assessments illuminating an individuals treatment needs.
As the former clinical director of a community behavioral health in Anchorage, I have experience providing therapy to a range of ages including: children, youth, families and adults experiencing a variety of challenges. I work with youth who experience disruptive behaviors, acting out, and substance use. I provide care to individuals who have experienced trauma/ abuse, mood disorders, and the autism spectrum. I also provide forensic psychological evaluations for the court, and neuropsychological assessments illuminating an individuals treatment needs.
(907) 331-6733 View (907) 331-6733
Photo of Jeanne Brady, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Jeanne Brady
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It’s time to PAUSE, HEAL, and LIVE. We may find ourselves just existing or wrestling through our day, instead of really living. We may question what is our worth, or if we are living an authentic life. Allow me to share the journey of your discovery towards finding purpose and meaning. I am a passionate, grateful, compassionate, flawed, human being, seeking to contribute to the growth and wellness of any who desire to journey this thing we call life. My aim is to help you meet your goals and needs, and discover hidden strengths and values that makes life worth living by using strategies grounded in best practices and evidence-based.
It’s time to PAUSE, HEAL, and LIVE. We may find ourselves just existing or wrestling through our day, instead of really living. We may question what is our worth, or if we are living an authentic life. Allow me to share the journey of your discovery towards finding purpose and meaning. I am a passionate, grateful, compassionate, flawed, human being, seeking to contribute to the growth and wellness of any who desire to journey this thing we call life. My aim is to help you meet your goals and needs, and discover hidden strengths and values that makes life worth living by using strategies grounded in best practices and evidence-based.
(855) 573-4980 View (855) 573-4980
Photo of Ann W. Stockman MSW, PhD LLC, Psychologist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Ann W. Stockman MSW, PhD LLC
Psychologist, MSW, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Spenard, Anchorage, AK 99503
Please note my location. With 30+ years of practice in Anchorage, I appreciate the power of mindful listening with couples, individuals and groups. As a certified emotion focused therapist I find a respectful way of being present with others so their deep truth can be understood and assist them in finding their life forward energy. In our hurried culture our voices risk not being heard inside ourselves. We overwhelmed adults may find our vulnerability locked away, not even shared with our loved ones. It is a privilege to earn trust to share people's journey in a safe manner.
Please note my location. With 30+ years of practice in Anchorage, I appreciate the power of mindful listening with couples, individuals and groups. As a certified emotion focused therapist I find a respectful way of being present with others so their deep truth can be understood and assist them in finding their life forward energy. In our hurried culture our voices risk not being heard inside ourselves. We overwhelmed adults may find our vulnerability locked away, not even shared with our loved ones. It is a privilege to earn trust to share people's journey in a safe manner.
(907) 312-5310 View (907) 312-5310

Online Therapists

Photo of Robert M Sawin III, Pre-Licensed Professional in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
Robert M Sawin III
Pre-Licensed Professional, CT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515
Working through feelings of depression, anxiety, and the deep impact of past experiences.
Navigating life's complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I am committed to helping foster a space of empathy, understanding, and respect. My approach centers around listening to your experiences and feelings, aiming to connect with your underlying needs. In a supportive space, we can explore strategies that resonate with your unique situation, facilitating a journey toward healing and growth.
Working through feelings of depression, anxiety, and the deep impact of past experiences.
Navigating life's complexities can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. I am committed to helping foster a space of empathy, understanding, and respect. My approach centers around listening to your experiences and feelings, aiming to connect with your underlying needs. In a supportive space, we can explore strategies that resonate with your unique situation, facilitating a journey toward healing and growth.
(855) 979-7890 View (855) 979-7890
Photo of International Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spenard, Anchorage, AK
International Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IMFT, IBHC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Primary disorders treated: Adults: Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), couples counseling, - Children: ADHD, Conduct disorders, Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), Childhood abuse and trauma - We offer life coaching ( Job stress, like skills, spiritual counseling, health and wellness etc.
Crystal Smith gained experience supporting Military Treatment Facilities as an Integrated Behavioral Health consultant to primary care physicians, providing direct clinical counseling at an inpatient adolescent behavioral health unit, and as a clinical director in an outpatient mental health center. She also provided mental health counseling services in private practice, residential treatment and served as case management in the field of social work. Crystal Smith is board certified and licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in Hawaii, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and as a LCPC in Guam.
Primary disorders treated: Adults: Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), couples counseling, - Children: ADHD, Conduct disorders, Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), Childhood abuse and trauma - We offer life coaching ( Job stress, like skills, spiritual counseling, health and wellness etc.
Crystal Smith gained experience supporting Military Treatment Facilities as an Integrated Behavioral Health consultant to primary care physicians, providing direct clinical counseling at an inpatient adolescent behavioral health unit, and as a clinical director in an outpatient mental health center. She also provided mental health counseling services in private practice, residential treatment and served as case management in the field of social work. Crystal Smith is board certified and licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in Hawaii, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and as a LCPC in Guam.
(251) 255-8197 View (251) 255-8197

See more therapy options for Spenard, Anchorage

Depression Therapists

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.