Depression Therapists in Avondale, AZ

Photo of Randi Whittington, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Randi Whittington
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LASAC
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
Hi, My name is Randi. I am a licensed Addictions Counselor and I specialize in working with individuals in early recovery from addiction and families affected by substance use, and addiction. My experience includes working with co-occurring disorders related to addiction; PTSD, families of addicts, partners of sex addiction, depression, anxiety, sex addiction, Love addiction/Love avoidance, codependency, intimacy issues, grief counseling as well as process addictions. I use an integrative approach; addressing family of origin issues, as well as mental and physical health to help you reach your goals of healing and sobriety.
Hi, My name is Randi. I am a licensed Addictions Counselor and I specialize in working with individuals in early recovery from addiction and families affected by substance use, and addiction. My experience includes working with co-occurring disorders related to addiction; PTSD, families of addicts, partners of sex addiction, depression, anxiety, sex addiction, Love addiction/Love avoidance, codependency, intimacy issues, grief counseling as well as process addictions. I use an integrative approach; addressing family of origin issues, as well as mental and physical health to help you reach your goals of healing and sobriety.
(623) 263-9516 View (623) 263-9516
Photo of Aaron Aster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Aaron Aster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
As an LPC, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals facing anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, and gender dysphoria. Tailoring evidence-based therapies to each client's unique journey, I provide affirming and inclusive support. By creating a safe and affirming space, I empower clients to explore their emotions, identify coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. Together, we can work towards fostering inner peace, self-acceptance, and meaningful growth on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow and schedule a free, confidential consultation.
As an LPC, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals facing anxiety, panic disorders, depression, stress, and gender dysphoria. Tailoring evidence-based therapies to each client's unique journey, I provide affirming and inclusive support. By creating a safe and affirming space, I empower clients to explore their emotions, identify coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. Together, we can work towards fostering inner peace, self-acceptance, and meaningful growth on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow and schedule a free, confidential consultation.
(623) 254-4420 View (623) 254-4420
Photo of Angela Wayne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Angela Wayne
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
As people our day to day life changes. But what happens if we are unable to meet the expectations of change? I provide counseling for those dealing with a variety of issues from anxiety to depression to even PTSD. My goal is to help you set and achieve what you desire in therapy whether it is a safe place or a place to work through difficult issues. I am there for you.
As people our day to day life changes. But what happens if we are unable to meet the expectations of change? I provide counseling for those dealing with a variety of issues from anxiety to depression to even PTSD. My goal is to help you set and achieve what you desire in therapy whether it is a safe place or a place to work through difficult issues. I am there for you.
(480) 418-0151 View (480) 418-0151
Photo of Joel Tyler Whiteside, Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Joel Tyler Whiteside
Counselor, MSPC, LPC, CBCC
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85323
My journey in the field of mental health has equipped me with the skills to address a variety of concerns, from anxiety and depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, substance and alcohol abuse, chronic pain, parenting, anger management, and life transitions.
Your restoration journey starts here. I'm Joel Whiteside, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to helping individuals navigate the intricate path of personal healing and growth. With a passion for fostering resilience and empowering my clients, I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore, understand, and transform your life. I approach each client with genuine compassion and empathy, where you can feel heard and understood. I believe in addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. We will work together towards your goals, work through the struggles, and celebrate the wins.
My journey in the field of mental health has equipped me with the skills to address a variety of concerns, from anxiety and depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, substance and alcohol abuse, chronic pain, parenting, anger management, and life transitions.
Your restoration journey starts here. I'm Joel Whiteside, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to helping individuals navigate the intricate path of personal healing and growth. With a passion for fostering resilience and empowering my clients, I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore, understand, and transform your life. I approach each client with genuine compassion and empathy, where you can feel heard and understood. I believe in addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. We will work together towards your goals, work through the struggles, and celebrate the wins.
(623) 267-9783 View (623) 267-9783
Photo of Lluliana Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avondale, AZ
Lluliana Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85323  (Online Only)
Are you often worried or think of the worst-case scenario? Do you feel lonely but embarrassed you will burden others if you reach out? Maybe you feel you are “too emotional or too much.” Do you often feel out of place? Is it difficult to find your voice and set boundaries? Sometimes we may need someone with an outside perspective to listen, and remind us of our strengths. ¡Saludos! My name is Lluliana, and I am excited you are here! I take a trauma-oppression-informed approach to treating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, childhood trauma, and other issues.
Are you often worried or think of the worst-case scenario? Do you feel lonely but embarrassed you will burden others if you reach out? Maybe you feel you are “too emotional or too much.” Do you often feel out of place? Is it difficult to find your voice and set boundaries? Sometimes we may need someone with an outside perspective to listen, and remind us of our strengths. ¡Saludos! My name is Lluliana, and I am excited you are here! I take a trauma-oppression-informed approach to treating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, childhood trauma, and other issues.
(480) 485-0948 View (480) 485-0948
Photo of Lisa Mendoza, Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Lisa Mendoza
Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85323
I specialize in trauma and also have experience working with depression, anxiety, addictions, grief & more.
Now accepting Aetna and BCBS. Have you been feeling like you have reached or are about to reach your breaking point? Have you come to a point where your usual coping skills are no longer effective? Have you resorted to coping skills that you know are leading you down a dangerous, unproductive, or negative path? Are your relationships with your spouse, family, friends or co-workers strained? Do you feel like your purpose in life is unclear? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are in the right place!
I specialize in trauma and also have experience working with depression, anxiety, addictions, grief & more.
Now accepting Aetna and BCBS. Have you been feeling like you have reached or are about to reach your breaking point? Have you come to a point where your usual coping skills are no longer effective? Have you resorted to coping skills that you know are leading you down a dangerous, unproductive, or negative path? Are your relationships with your spouse, family, friends or co-workers strained? Do you feel like your purpose in life is unclear? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are in the right place!
(623) 526-8517 View (623) 526-8517
Photo of Mindy Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avondale, AZ
Mindy Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
From an outside perspective, you’ve got it together. But inside, do you feel like a bumbling cartoon character trying to keep your 27 hats balanced on your head while juggling 14 balls… ? Are you going through a life transition and feeling bombarded with stress, anxiety, depression, maybe some imposter syndrome? Does your inner bully like to smack you sometimes, or your past self sabotaging behaviors run across the stage….again? Life transitions can be overwhelming and daunting - especially if you keep telling yourself you "SHOULD" be fine!
From an outside perspective, you’ve got it together. But inside, do you feel like a bumbling cartoon character trying to keep your 27 hats balanced on your head while juggling 14 balls… ? Are you going through a life transition and feeling bombarded with stress, anxiety, depression, maybe some imposter syndrome? Does your inner bully like to smack you sometimes, or your past self sabotaging behaviors run across the stage….again? Life transitions can be overwhelming and daunting - especially if you keep telling yourself you "SHOULD" be fine!
(480) 448-2929 View (480) 448-2929
Photo of Fit Mind Professional Counseling, Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Fit Mind Professional Counseling
Counselor, LAC, CCPT
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
My clients develop the strength to reduce the impact of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Immediate openings! Air Force vet. I'm a certified trauma professional with an approach that is flexible, collaborative, and effective. I hope to motivate you to pursue your goals and provide affordable mental health care that elevates your psychological fitness.
My clients develop the strength to reduce the impact of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Immediate openings! Air Force vet. I'm a certified trauma professional with an approach that is flexible, collaborative, and effective. I hope to motivate you to pursue your goals and provide affordable mental health care that elevates your psychological fitness.
(623) 304-7794 View (623) 304-7794
Photo of Rebecca DeVito, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Rebecca DeVito
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
Navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, and trauma can be a challenging journey, and I'm here to offer support tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I create a safe and open environment where we can collaboratively explore your experiences. Utilizing trauma-focused treatment, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, I work with you at a pace comfortable to you, promoting a healthier outlook and peace of mind. If you're ready to embark on a path of positive change, I'm here to guide you.
Navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, and trauma can be a challenging journey, and I'm here to offer support tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I create a safe and open environment where we can collaboratively explore your experiences. Utilizing trauma-focused treatment, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, I work with you at a pace comfortable to you, promoting a healthier outlook and peace of mind. If you're ready to embark on a path of positive change, I'm here to guide you.
(907) 312-0113 View (907) 312-0113
Photo of Kaitlyn Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Kaitlyn Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85392
As a counselor at Lifeline Professional Counseling, my goal is to equip you to reach yours. I provide a variety of services for all ages, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I specialize in relationship issues and emotional disturbance. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of family conflicts, couples concerns, relationship issues and personality corrections. I help clients through issues of domestic violence, anger management, anxiety, depression and trauma.
As a counselor at Lifeline Professional Counseling, my goal is to equip you to reach yours. I provide a variety of services for all ages, and I enjoy working with individuals and families. I specialize in relationship issues and emotional disturbance. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of family conflicts, couples concerns, relationship issues and personality corrections. I help clients through issues of domestic violence, anger management, anxiety, depression and trauma.
(480) 725-0722 View (480) 725-0722
Photo of Dr. Nafisa Sekandari, Psychologist in Avondale, AZ
Dr. Nafisa Sekandari
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
For California and Arizona Residents only: Through Telehealth and online therapy, my practice serves children, teens, adults, elder adults, and families. Services include individual and family therapy. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, dementia/Alzheimer's, and childhood behavior issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy such as CBT, EFT, Environmental and Dietary focus, as well as mindfulness and meditation. Specialties include working with ethnic minorities from the Arab, South Asian, Afghan, or Muslim communities. I'm bilingual in English and Dari/Farsi. Learn more: transforminganxiety.com
For California and Arizona Residents only: Through Telehealth and online therapy, my practice serves children, teens, adults, elder adults, and families. Services include individual and family therapy. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, OCD, dementia/Alzheimer's, and childhood behavior issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy such as CBT, EFT, Environmental and Dietary focus, as well as mindfulness and meditation. Specialties include working with ethnic minorities from the Arab, South Asian, Afghan, or Muslim communities. I'm bilingual in English and Dari/Farsi. Learn more: transforminganxiety.com
(480) 845-0528 View (480) 845-0528
Photo of Nayeli Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Nayeli Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85323  (Online Only)
I am not the expert, YOU are! But perhaps with all that life has thrown at you- parenthood, unhealthy relationships, anxiety, depression, life after Covid, health issues, or hidden burdens, you have not been able to figure it out like you could have before.
Are you noticing yourself being consumed by anxious thoughts? Are you finding it difficult to live your best life in the present moment, and catching yourself drifting off? It’s ok. Many of us do, especially in this day and age where there are a million-and-one things pulling us in different directions. From your tasks at work or home, in relationships, and/or with family, anxiety may be interfering. Or perhaps you are noticing resurfaced trauma that is aiding in your inability to have meaningful relationships resulting in isolation and misunderstood pain.
I am not the expert, YOU are! But perhaps with all that life has thrown at you- parenthood, unhealthy relationships, anxiety, depression, life after Covid, health issues, or hidden burdens, you have not been able to figure it out like you could have before.
Are you noticing yourself being consumed by anxious thoughts? Are you finding it difficult to live your best life in the present moment, and catching yourself drifting off? It’s ok. Many of us do, especially in this day and age where there are a million-and-one things pulling us in different directions. From your tasks at work or home, in relationships, and/or with family, anxiety may be interfering. Or perhaps you are noticing resurfaced trauma that is aiding in your inability to have meaningful relationships resulting in isolation and misunderstood pain.
(623) 252-0763 View (623) 252-0763
Photo of Samia Jada, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Samia Jada
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
I have years of experience in marital and relationship, depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma and perinatal mood disorders included but not limited to postpartum depression.
I am so happy you are here! Do you often feel helpless or over think things? Do you feel stressed to the point you are unable to gather your thoughts? Is trauma holding you back? Do you ever feel stuck in a relationship that seems to have lost its physical and emotional spark that you once had? Do you feel you no longer can communicate? Are you a mom or soon to be mom? I have years of experience in Women issues, Perinatal mood and Post Partum, Relationship/Marriage counseling, and/or individual trauma counseling can help you explore emotions and find yourself again. I would love to be a part of your journey!
I have years of experience in marital and relationship, depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma and perinatal mood disorders included but not limited to postpartum depression.
I am so happy you are here! Do you often feel helpless or over think things? Do you feel stressed to the point you are unable to gather your thoughts? Is trauma holding you back? Do you ever feel stuck in a relationship that seems to have lost its physical and emotional spark that you once had? Do you feel you no longer can communicate? Are you a mom or soon to be mom? I have years of experience in Women issues, Perinatal mood and Post Partum, Relationship/Marriage counseling, and/or individual trauma counseling can help you explore emotions and find yourself again. I would love to be a part of your journey!
(602) 353-7152 View (602) 353-7152
Photo of Stacey Baughman, Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Stacey Baughman
Counselor, MAPC, LPC, NCC, CSAT, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85323
Stacey is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with training by Dr. Patrick Carnes, Dr. Stefanie Carnes and Dr. Ken Adams, Dr. Claudia Black and Pia Mellody. Ms. Baughman has worked for the past seven years as the sex addition therapist at The Meadows, a world-renown inpatient treatment facility, assisting clients to discuss their trauma and addiction (process and substance) issues. Typically addicts will use sex as a way to belong, gain acceptance, approval from others, avoid stress, anxiety, and depression. Addiction also serves as a coping mechanism to medicate old wounds, emotions, and distorts reality.
Stacey is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with training by Dr. Patrick Carnes, Dr. Stefanie Carnes and Dr. Ken Adams, Dr. Claudia Black and Pia Mellody. Ms. Baughman has worked for the past seven years as the sex addition therapist at The Meadows, a world-renown inpatient treatment facility, assisting clients to discuss their trauma and addiction (process and substance) issues. Typically addicts will use sex as a way to belong, gain acceptance, approval from others, avoid stress, anxiety, and depression. Addiction also serves as a coping mechanism to medicate old wounds, emotions, and distorts reality.
(623) 455-5481 View (623) 455-5481
Photo of Sumita Punia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Avondale, AZ
Sumita Punia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
Life’s transitions can get the best of us sometimes. It is not easy to see the rainbow behind the clouds when you are amid the storm. Difficult times of adjusting to these transitions are also the opportunity to grow. I believe having a supportive & non-judgmental environment helps us heal. If you are struggling with a relationship question, want more out of your relationship, trying to figure out parenting during changing relationship dynamics, or if you or your child are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, etc., then I would feel privileged to create a safe space to start your healing journey.
Life’s transitions can get the best of us sometimes. It is not easy to see the rainbow behind the clouds when you are amid the storm. Difficult times of adjusting to these transitions are also the opportunity to grow. I believe having a supportive & non-judgmental environment helps us heal. If you are struggling with a relationship question, want more out of your relationship, trying to figure out parenting during changing relationship dynamics, or if you or your child are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, etc., then I would feel privileged to create a safe space to start your healing journey.
(623) 286-2743 View (623) 286-2743
Photo of Dr. Noé Vargas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Dr. Noé Vargas
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing self-rejection, anxiety, depression, psychological trauma, feel lost, or have addictive behaviors, dare yourself to overcome such emotions, experiences, and self-defeating behaviors. Learn how to be self-compassionate and introspect and find your inner strength to give meaning, courage, and direction to your life. Learn how to balance your life domains, work towards your genuine and authentic self, and overcome negative emotions and behaviors. With hard work, dedication, and the appropriate support, you can live the life you have dreamed of. Set a counseling appointment with me today! Thank you.
If you are experiencing self-rejection, anxiety, depression, psychological trauma, feel lost, or have addictive behaviors, dare yourself to overcome such emotions, experiences, and self-defeating behaviors. Learn how to be self-compassionate and introspect and find your inner strength to give meaning, courage, and direction to your life. Learn how to balance your life domains, work towards your genuine and authentic self, and overcome negative emotions and behaviors. With hard work, dedication, and the appropriate support, you can live the life you have dreamed of. Set a counseling appointment with me today! Thank you.
(623) 257-6572 View (623) 257-6572
Photo of Best Self LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avondale, AZ
Best Self LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85392
In our work together, we will identify and build upon your strengths to create healthy ways of managing anxiety, depression, trauma, self expression, and life coaching, etc.
Sometimes despite our best intentions we find ourselves consumed by unhealthy thoughts or engaged in relationships that are not supportive to our exploration, identification and realization of our best selves. You may be trying to find ways to deal with a loss of a relationship, process and grow through trauma, manage stress, or explore your career path. The goal of Best Self LLC is to create a safe space for you to acknowledge your strengths and reinforce your resilience while you define and witness your success and grow.
In our work together, we will identify and build upon your strengths to create healthy ways of managing anxiety, depression, trauma, self expression, and life coaching, etc.
Sometimes despite our best intentions we find ourselves consumed by unhealthy thoughts or engaged in relationships that are not supportive to our exploration, identification and realization of our best selves. You may be trying to find ways to deal with a loss of a relationship, process and grow through trauma, manage stress, or explore your career path. The goal of Best Self LLC is to create a safe space for you to acknowledge your strengths and reinforce your resilience while you define and witness your success and grow.
(602) 666-9918 View (602) 666-9918
Photo of Marnie Pollard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avondale, AZ
Marnie Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85392  (Online Only)
Life these days can be isolating, stressful, and demanding. Thriving can be even more difficult for those struggling with anxiety, past trauma, grief, and life transitions. With my educational and professional emphasis in the field of child and family welfare, I have much experience working with individuals through stressors in the nuclear family, as well as the family of origin. I am passionate about supporting those in transitioning roles such as adolescence, young adulthood, work, parenting, relationships, empty-nesting, and grief. The goal of our work together will be to make the specific, positive changes you desire.
Life these days can be isolating, stressful, and demanding. Thriving can be even more difficult for those struggling with anxiety, past trauma, grief, and life transitions. With my educational and professional emphasis in the field of child and family welfare, I have much experience working with individuals through stressors in the nuclear family, as well as the family of origin. I am passionate about supporting those in transitioning roles such as adolescence, young adulthood, work, parenting, relationships, empty-nesting, and grief. The goal of our work together will be to make the specific, positive changes you desire.
(623) 292-3802 View (623) 292-3802
Photo of Valerie Girod, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Valerie Girod
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85392
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have offices in Peoria, Avondale, and Scottsdale Arizona. I graduated from the University of Oklahoma. I have 18 years of experience in the social service field and have been a Clinical Director for several programs in the valley, but enjoy providing therapy to individuals and families the most. I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family therapy. I understand that taking the first step towards getting help can be the most difficult and look forward to gaining your trust and helping you regain peace in your life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have offices in Peoria, Avondale, and Scottsdale Arizona. I graduated from the University of Oklahoma. I have 18 years of experience in the social service field and have been a Clinical Director for several programs in the valley, but enjoy providing therapy to individuals and families the most. I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family therapy. I understand that taking the first step towards getting help can be the most difficult and look forward to gaining your trust and helping you regain peace in your life.
(520) 549-3083 View (520) 549-3083
Photo of Dawn Marie Bellingham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avondale, AZ
Dawn Marie Bellingham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale, AZ 85323
Welcome to Grace & Gratitude Counseling, PLLC. My desire is that you will find hope and healing throughout your journey. I have been working in the mental health and addiction field for 15 years. Additionally, I have worked in the education field for over 20 years. My expertise includes working in the areas of Christian counseling, trauma work, experiential therapy, mental health, relationships, family, and addiction. I also have a passion for working with adolescents and young adults. I spent time at the junior high and high school level teaching English, working as a guidance counselor, and as a social worker.
Welcome to Grace & Gratitude Counseling, PLLC. My desire is that you will find hope and healing throughout your journey. I have been working in the mental health and addiction field for 15 years. Additionally, I have worked in the education field for over 20 years. My expertise includes working in the areas of Christian counseling, trauma work, experiential therapy, mental health, relationships, family, and addiction. I also have a passion for working with adolescents and young adults. I spent time at the junior high and high school level teaching English, working as a guidance counselor, and as a social worker.
(602) 497-0121 View (602) 497-0121
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.