Photo of Jody Ortman, Psychologist in Colorado
Jody Ortman
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in supporting adults and couples working through life changes, health concerns, anxiety, depression, and navigating trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and addiction counselor. I specialize in supporting adults and couples working through life changes, health concerns, anxiety, depression, and navigating recovery from trauma. Seeking support when things aren’t going well can be incredibly difficult and finding the right fit with a therapist is essential. I am happy to schedule a free video consultation to discuss your needs and ensure that we would be a good fit. Please reach out to me via email with days and times that would work best for you.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in supporting adults and couples working through life changes, health concerns, anxiety, depression, and navigating trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and addiction counselor. I specialize in supporting adults and couples working through life changes, health concerns, anxiety, depression, and navigating recovery from trauma. Seeking support when things aren’t going well can be incredibly difficult and finding the right fit with a therapist is essential. I am happy to schedule a free video consultation to discuss your needs and ensure that we would be a good fit. Please reach out to me via email with days and times that would work best for you.
(480) 907-3685 View (480) 907-3685
Photo of Steve Blad, Psychologist in Colorado
Steve Blad
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I have provided psychotherapy to all ages for 24 years. I primarily do individual therapy with adults and teens. I provide in-person (preferred) and Telehealth therapy. I treat an array of clinical issues: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (panic disorder, GAD, PTSD, etc.), eating disorders, schizoaffective disorder, psychosis, personality disorders (borderline, narcissistic, antisocial, etc.), anger, life stress, and substance abuse/dependence. I assist clients dealing with various life stressors including job loss, grief, trauma, adjustment issues etc. I encourage and advocate for coping versus avoidance behavior.
I have provided psychotherapy to all ages for 24 years. I primarily do individual therapy with adults and teens. I provide in-person (preferred) and Telehealth therapy. I treat an array of clinical issues: depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders (panic disorder, GAD, PTSD, etc.), eating disorders, schizoaffective disorder, psychosis, personality disorders (borderline, narcissistic, antisocial, etc.), anger, life stress, and substance abuse/dependence. I assist clients dealing with various life stressors including job loss, grief, trauma, adjustment issues etc. I encourage and advocate for coping versus avoidance behavior.
(970) 427-5068 View (970) 427-5068
Photo of Joel Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Joel Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, and addictions. I'm a real human, and I'll treat you like one. You'll probably cry a bit, laugh a bit more, and feel heard and understood along the way. You'll leave therapy more equipped to manage the crap life can throw at you, and you'll be better able to enjoy your life.
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, and addictions. I'm a real human, and I'll treat you like one. You'll probably cry a bit, laugh a bit more, and feel heard and understood along the way. You'll leave therapy more equipped to manage the crap life can throw at you, and you'll be better able to enjoy your life.
(720) 776-9957 View (720) 776-9957
Photo of Kevin Wittenberg, Psychologist and Psychoanalyst, Psychologist in Colorado
Kevin Wittenberg, Psychologist and Psychoanalyst
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238  (Online Only)
Our capacity to connect, both with ourselves (i.e. our passions, feelings, and body) and with others, is crucial to our feelings of well-being. When we connect, we generally feel a sense of aliveness in ourselves and the world. When we can't connect, we feel anxious, isolated, empty, or depressed. I feel my job is to help clients to more fully connect to the range of their experiences. I help adults and adolescents explore why they lose connection. I help them identify, understand, and overcome the deep root of their disconnection. I help them find well-being, which gives me great joy.
Our capacity to connect, both with ourselves (i.e. our passions, feelings, and body) and with others, is crucial to our feelings of well-being. When we connect, we generally feel a sense of aliveness in ourselves and the world. When we can't connect, we feel anxious, isolated, empty, or depressed. I feel my job is to help clients to more fully connect to the range of their experiences. I help adults and adolescents explore why they lose connection. I help them identify, understand, and overcome the deep root of their disconnection. I help them find well-being, which gives me great joy.
(720) 764-5401 View (720) 764-5401
Photo of David J Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
David J Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are struggling with substance abuse, addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, identity, and transition.
Seeking counseling can be a difficult first step. It's hard for us to acknowledge our pain, and often we feel guilty about it. Feelings aren't good or bad, they just are--the consequences of those feelings are what we can influence. Counseling is important because it can provide a safe place to speak the truth about what we are going through. Our truth is powerful and can be a motivator for making changes to how we feel and what we do. Counseling can help us identify our values, goals, & beliefs and to harness them to help us heal.
I work with clients who are struggling with substance abuse, addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, identity, and transition.
Seeking counseling can be a difficult first step. It's hard for us to acknowledge our pain, and often we feel guilty about it. Feelings aren't good or bad, they just are--the consequences of those feelings are what we can influence. Counseling is important because it can provide a safe place to speak the truth about what we are going through. Our truth is powerful and can be a motivator for making changes to how we feel and what we do. Counseling can help us identify our values, goals, & beliefs and to harness them to help us heal.
(303) 732-6873 View (303) 732-6873
Photo of Jennifer Zenker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Jennifer Zenker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80138
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families, who are willing to do whatever it takes to improve their well-being. By sharing your concerns, together we can develop a workable solution-focused plan to bring solid changes and make the greatest impact on problem issues. I offer skills and techniques to reduce anxiety/fears, stress, depression, mood changes, and help with relationship communications and the ability to function more resiliently. We will identify triggers, images, thoughts, emotions and sensations that cause difficulties and work to create an optimally healthy mind that functions in a healthy way.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families, who are willing to do whatever it takes to improve their well-being. By sharing your concerns, together we can develop a workable solution-focused plan to bring solid changes and make the greatest impact on problem issues. I offer skills and techniques to reduce anxiety/fears, stress, depression, mood changes, and help with relationship communications and the ability to function more resiliently. We will identify triggers, images, thoughts, emotions and sensations that cause difficulties and work to create an optimally healthy mind that functions in a healthy way.
(719) 553-5357 View (719) 553-5357
Photo of Robert Bundy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Robert Bundy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Loveland, CO 80538
I have extensive experience and training in delivering Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), SCHEMA Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Practices, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse issues, sexual addiction issues, parent and child relationship, and Existential Therapy.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in the greater Loveland/Fort Collins area, and I’d be honored to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. I believe that each individual has the ability to change their lives for the better and my approach to change is geared toward helping individuals become more confident, capable, and become the best version of themselves.
I have extensive experience and training in delivering Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), SCHEMA Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Practices, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse issues, sexual addiction issues, parent and child relationship, and Existential Therapy.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in the greater Loveland/Fort Collins area, and I’d be honored to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. I believe that each individual has the ability to change their lives for the better and my approach to change is geared toward helping individuals become more confident, capable, and become the best version of themselves.
(970) 341-2096 View (970) 341-2096
Photo of Kendrick S Lutz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Kendrick S Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I can teach you coping skills to meet life's daily challenges, whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, struggling with grief, dealing with PTSD, marital or family conflict.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by! Do you ever think to yourself, "What's wrong with me?" or "How come I cannot snap out of it?" Let me tell you, there is nothing wrong with you and you simply cannot snap out of it. There are a lot of social stigmas when we have emotional struggles; we internalize these beliefs. Sometimes, we resist seeking treatment because it can be seen as a weakness because of underlying trauma or experience. This worsens over time whether you are depressed, anxious, fearful, frustrated, resentful, or angry. I believe many of us want to have understanding, support, empathy, and new coping methods.
I can teach you coping skills to meet life's daily challenges, whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, struggling with grief, dealing with PTSD, marital or family conflict.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by! Do you ever think to yourself, "What's wrong with me?" or "How come I cannot snap out of it?" Let me tell you, there is nothing wrong with you and you simply cannot snap out of it. There are a lot of social stigmas when we have emotional struggles; we internalize these beliefs. Sometimes, we resist seeking treatment because it can be seen as a weakness because of underlying trauma or experience. This worsens over time whether you are depressed, anxious, fearful, frustrated, resentful, or angry. I believe many of us want to have understanding, support, empathy, and new coping methods.
(719) 224-6041 View (719) 224-6041
Photo of James Jahmaya Kessler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
James Jahmaya Kessler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
Ever feel like there is more to this life than the one you've been living? As someone who has felt the gravity and darkness of untapped potential I know what's it's like to be living a life we don't love. The clues are within the depression and/or anxiety - these are our body's brilliantly sane ways of saying "pay attention!" Anyone can have a life that is full of passion, richness, purpose, and they feel joyfully proud to be living. It will take vulnerability, bravery, sacrifices, and perhaps some help to get this life that you love. I'd be deeply honored to be the gentle and firm guide you need to help you create this life.
Ever feel like there is more to this life than the one you've been living? As someone who has felt the gravity and darkness of untapped potential I know what's it's like to be living a life we don't love. The clues are within the depression and/or anxiety - these are our body's brilliantly sane ways of saying "pay attention!" Anyone can have a life that is full of passion, richness, purpose, and they feel joyfully proud to be living. It will take vulnerability, bravery, sacrifices, and perhaps some help to get this life that you love. I'd be deeply honored to be the gentle and firm guide you need to help you create this life.
(720) 669-7721 View (720) 669-7721
Photo of Luke Walljasper, Counselor in Colorado
Luke Walljasper
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
As we travel along in life, emotional pain and trauma often cause us to fracture and lose touch with ourselves, leaving us scrambling to pick up the pieces–but the good news is we don’t have to go it alone. In a world full of distraction and overstimulation, it is an act of rebellion to slow down, look within, and feel. I see myself as a guide and co-pilot to support you in exploring your emotional landscape and navigating the ever-evolving journey of self-discovery. I’ve had the honor of helping clients work through anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, terminal illness, men’s issues, and relationship troubles.
As we travel along in life, emotional pain and trauma often cause us to fracture and lose touch with ourselves, leaving us scrambling to pick up the pieces–but the good news is we don’t have to go it alone. In a world full of distraction and overstimulation, it is an act of rebellion to slow down, look within, and feel. I see myself as a guide and co-pilot to support you in exploring your emotional landscape and navigating the ever-evolving journey of self-discovery. I’ve had the honor of helping clients work through anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, terminal illness, men’s issues, and relationship troubles.
(720) 734-8070 View (720) 734-8070
Photo of Anthony Gauthier, Counselor in Colorado
Anthony Gauthier
Counselor, MS, ADDC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in the mental health and substance abuse community for over 15 years through volunteer work, in-patient and outpatient services, detox and emergency room settings. I provide a client centered approach through depression, anxiety, substance abuse, coping skill development, boundary and communication improvement. I strive to raise mental health awareness and focus on improving life skills to build a better sense of self and desire to serve the communities in which you reside.
I have worked in the mental health and substance abuse community for over 15 years through volunteer work, in-patient and outpatient services, detox and emergency room settings. I provide a client centered approach through depression, anxiety, substance abuse, coping skill development, boundary and communication improvement. I strive to raise mental health awareness and focus on improving life skills to build a better sense of self and desire to serve the communities in which you reside.
(719) 223-3769 View (719) 223-3769
Photo of Wild Hearted Healing in Colorado
Wild Hearted Healing
MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80215
Maybe this is your first time in therapy, and you don't know what to expect. Or maybe you've tried many times, but it feels like nothing has worked. Either way, I think I have something unique to offer you. I use both nature and technology to enhance the effectiveness of therapy. This combination yields positive results in many different areas including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, anger management, self-esteem, and more.
Maybe this is your first time in therapy, and you don't know what to expect. Or maybe you've tried many times, but it feels like nothing has worked. Either way, I think I have something unique to offer you. I use both nature and technology to enhance the effectiveness of therapy. This combination yields positive results in many different areas including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, anger management, self-esteem, and more.
(720) 358-8759 View (720) 358-8759
Photo of Maxx Myers- Very Good Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Maxx Myers- Very Good Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longmont, CO 80501  (Online Only)
Things have got to change. Why else would you be here, searching through this site? It's frustrating to feel held back by anxiety and depression, knowing that you want things to be different but not knowing how to make the change. It's time to shift things from struggle to a success story. My direct and humorous style will help you gain insight into your own mind, so you can kick that anxiety and depression out of the drivers seat and be the awesome YOU that, deep down, you know you really are. If it seems like you just can't get out of your own way, we are going to work very well together. You can be the achiever you know you are!
Things have got to change. Why else would you be here, searching through this site? It's frustrating to feel held back by anxiety and depression, knowing that you want things to be different but not knowing how to make the change. It's time to shift things from struggle to a success story. My direct and humorous style will help you gain insight into your own mind, so you can kick that anxiety and depression out of the drivers seat and be the awesome YOU that, deep down, you know you really are. If it seems like you just can't get out of your own way, we are going to work very well together. You can be the achiever you know you are!
(720) 745-6813 View (720) 745-6813
Photo of Tevara Jeanne Paranto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Tevara Jeanne Paranto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80031
Do you struggle with food and body image? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed with life? Is your relationship feeling stuck? Are you needing to come out and be the TRUE YOU? I am here to join with you and help you move through these issues. I believe that we all have the power and potential to change and therapy can be the starting point. Therapy is about growth, going deeper and finding a better way to live. You are courageous to have taken this first step.
Do you struggle with food and body image? Do you feel depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed with life? Is your relationship feeling stuck? Are you needing to come out and be the TRUE YOU? I am here to join with you and help you move through these issues. I believe that we all have the power and potential to change and therapy can be the starting point. Therapy is about growth, going deeper and finding a better way to live. You are courageous to have taken this first step.
(720) 316-7302 View (720) 316-7302
Photo of Jason Seidel, Psychologist in Colorado
Jason Seidel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
I specialize in helping adults who have not been helped by past treatment, who have problems feeling connected, or who have long-standing struggles with trauma, depression, anxiety, or relationships. Currently I have openings for Group Therapy (not for individual or couples). I am happy to refer you to trusted colleagues if you would like to chat about that. All our therapists track how effective we are - and we publish our results. That's what makes The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence different. I invite you to read about my approach, results, fees, articles, and resources at thecoloradocenter.com.
I specialize in helping adults who have not been helped by past treatment, who have problems feeling connected, or who have long-standing struggles with trauma, depression, anxiety, or relationships. Currently I have openings for Group Therapy (not for individual or couples). I am happy to refer you to trusted colleagues if you would like to chat about that. All our therapists track how effective we are - and we publish our results. That's what makes The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence different. I invite you to read about my approach, results, fees, articles, and resources at thecoloradocenter.com.
(720) 509-9910 View (720) 509-9910
Photo of Zac McInerney, Counselor in Colorado
Zac McInerney
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Zac has extensive experience with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, and one of his strengths is helping them find their own path to healing.
We are all on our own path to find meaning in our lives, but life can cause us to stumble on that path. Zac McInerney believes that we all have the ability, potential, and courage to stand back up and continue along the path toward the meaningful experience of life. Zac is passionate about helping provide a safe, supportive, encouraging, and caring environment for each client to find their own change and growth. He is dedicated to helping clients find their unique potential and meaning, and strongly believes in the therapeutic relationship to provide an environment for growth.
Zac has extensive experience with individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, and one of his strengths is helping them find their own path to healing.
We are all on our own path to find meaning in our lives, but life can cause us to stumble on that path. Zac McInerney believes that we all have the ability, potential, and courage to stand back up and continue along the path toward the meaningful experience of life. Zac is passionate about helping provide a safe, supportive, encouraging, and caring environment for each client to find their own change and growth. He is dedicated to helping clients find their unique potential and meaning, and strongly believes in the therapeutic relationship to provide an environment for growth.
(970) 500-8967 View (970) 500-8967
Photo of Thomas Zachar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colorado
Thomas Zachar
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-C, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
The primary topics I address with my clients are anxiety, depression, anger, and spirituality.
Life can be really dang hard at times- together we can focus on personal growth, healing, and increasing the quality of your experience. Our relationship with others, our environments, and other dimensions of life is the core of who we are as humans. Fortunately, therapy is a tried and true version of this relationship that empowers us to accomplish mental health, wellness, and growth. I am here to connect with and understand your unique circumstances so that we can safely navigate any challenges that arise. My ideal world is one where we can all live in peace, harmony, and be able to express our inherent individuality.
The primary topics I address with my clients are anxiety, depression, anger, and spirituality.
Life can be really dang hard at times- together we can focus on personal growth, healing, and increasing the quality of your experience. Our relationship with others, our environments, and other dimensions of life is the core of who we are as humans. Fortunately, therapy is a tried and true version of this relationship that empowers us to accomplish mental health, wellness, and growth. I am here to connect with and understand your unique circumstances so that we can safely navigate any challenges that arise. My ideal world is one where we can all live in peace, harmony, and be able to express our inherent individuality.
(720) 983-3534 View (720) 983-3534
Photo of Grace Patton, LPC Intern in Colorado
Grace Patton
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013  (Online Only)
As an Army veteran, I'm experienced in dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Intern at Amy's Counseling Service based in Denver, CO. You are not alone. When we struggle with our mental health, sometimes it can feel like nobody understands what we are going through or that there is nobody we can talk to. One great about therapy is that you have someone walking beside you through your life’s highest highs and lowest lows. If I can be that for you, I will listen to you without judgment and with care and respect.
As an Army veteran, I'm experienced in dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Intern at Amy's Counseling Service based in Denver, CO. You are not alone. When we struggle with our mental health, sometimes it can feel like nobody understands what we are going through or that there is nobody we can talk to. One great about therapy is that you have someone walking beside you through your life’s highest highs and lowest lows. If I can be that for you, I will listen to you without judgment and with care and respect.
(720) 713-7445 View (720) 713-7445
Photo of Mandy Yamamoto, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Mandy Yamamoto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I see therapy as a partnership; you are the expert on your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences, and I am the guide who helps reframe and challenge certain lenses you might be using to view a situation or part of yourself. One of my primary specialties is working with those who are struggling with their use of substances. Another area of passion for me is assisting those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or who are having difficulty moving on from a past event. A third focus in my practice is working with the experiences of those in the LGBTQ+ community.
I see therapy as a partnership; you are the expert on your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences, and I am the guide who helps reframe and challenge certain lenses you might be using to view a situation or part of yourself. One of my primary specialties is working with those who are struggling with their use of substances. Another area of passion for me is assisting those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or who are having difficulty moving on from a past event. A third focus in my practice is working with the experiences of those in the LGBTQ+ community.
(720) 702-1564 View (720) 702-1564
Photo of Bret 'bea' Phillips, Registered Psychotherapist in Colorado
Bret 'bea' Phillips
Registered Psychotherapist, NLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have provided coaching and counsel to persons with a variety of concerns, including life crisis, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, goal setting, and vocational changes.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and a Certified Missional Coach. I have extensive coaching and counseling experience with couples and individuals of all ages, sexes, gender identities, and sexual preferences. Before I started working in mental health full time in 2017, I was board ordained as a Pastor in 2012, and gained certification as a Missional Coach from Multiply Vineyard and Logan Leadership 2014. Though I have worked in churches and professional environments, my true passions are mental heath, advocacy, and being and therapist and ally within our community.
I have provided coaching and counsel to persons with a variety of concerns, including life crisis, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, goal setting, and vocational changes.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and a Certified Missional Coach. I have extensive coaching and counseling experience with couples and individuals of all ages, sexes, gender identities, and sexual preferences. Before I started working in mental health full time in 2017, I was board ordained as a Pastor in 2012, and gained certification as a Missional Coach from Multiply Vineyard and Logan Leadership 2014. Though I have worked in churches and professional environments, my true passions are mental heath, advocacy, and being and therapist and ally within our community.
(970) 670-7826 View (970) 670-7826
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.