Depression Therapists in 20855

Photo of Mary Foster Herbers, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Foster Herbers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20855
I am skilled in working with: Depression,anxiety,aging,sexual identity, addictions (alcohol, drug, sex), schizophrenia, grief, spirituality, family of origin, couple relations,low self esteem, passivity/agressivity, life transitions and work stress.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience in working with people of all ages going through difficult times. I work with adults, 20 and older. My group, individual,and couples therapy sessions provide an arena for acceptance and an opportunity to work through problems. Do you struggle with work stress, depression, anxiety, negative thoughts, anger, lonely feelings, low self esteem, conflicts with others, past memories, shame, confusion or lack of concentration, hopelessness?. Let us meet and sort out the situation you can not cope with on your own. It is weakness, not strength that binds us together.
I am skilled in working with: Depression,anxiety,aging,sexual identity, addictions (alcohol, drug, sex), schizophrenia, grief, spirituality, family of origin, couple relations,low self esteem, passivity/agressivity, life transitions and work stress.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with years of experience in working with people of all ages going through difficult times. I work with adults, 20 and older. My group, individual,and couples therapy sessions provide an arena for acceptance and an opportunity to work through problems. Do you struggle with work stress, depression, anxiety, negative thoughts, anger, lonely feelings, low self esteem, conflicts with others, past memories, shame, confusion or lack of concentration, hopelessness?. Let us meet and sort out the situation you can not cope with on your own. It is weakness, not strength that binds us together.
(240) 813-4214 View (240) 813-4214
Photo of Peter King, LCPC
Peter King
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Derwood, MD 20855
Hello! Thank you for visiting my profile, you have taken an important step of reaching out for help. Maybe you're feeling stuck or discouraged, having trouble managing difficult thoughts or feelings, or experiencing anxiety or depression. Maybe you're wanting some different strategies to deal with the challenges in your life. I work with adolescents, adults, and families using a therapy approach which includes compassion, curiosity, and problem-solving. Your health and wellbeing are important and I want to partner with you to face and address any barriers keeping you from the life you want to live!
Hello! Thank you for visiting my profile, you have taken an important step of reaching out for help. Maybe you're feeling stuck or discouraged, having trouble managing difficult thoughts or feelings, or experiencing anxiety or depression. Maybe you're wanting some different strategies to deal with the challenges in your life. I work with adolescents, adults, and families using a therapy approach which includes compassion, curiosity, and problem-solving. Your health and wellbeing are important and I want to partner with you to face and address any barriers keeping you from the life you want to live!
(240) 616-1669 View (240) 616-1669
Photo of Julia Perini, LCSW-C, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Perini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I promote a warm, non-judgmental space to support clients as they work to connect to themselves and the world around them. I offer virtual services to residents of Maryland and Washington, D.C. I have helped clients struggling with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, family conflict, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, stress management, and more. We all go through various life transitions, such as moving away from home for the first time. My goal in the therapeutic relationship is to help individuals navigate life’s changes and struggles, achieve greater peace, and enjoy their unique process along the way.
I promote a warm, non-judgmental space to support clients as they work to connect to themselves and the world around them. I offer virtual services to residents of Maryland and Washington, D.C. I have helped clients struggling with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, family conflict, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, stress management, and more. We all go through various life transitions, such as moving away from home for the first time. My goal in the therapeutic relationship is to help individuals navigate life’s changes and struggles, achieve greater peace, and enjoy their unique process along the way.
(240) 213-9312 View (240) 213-9312
Photo of Alison Dorsky, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Dorsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855
Mindfulness and trauma informed therapies are some of the additional strategies I use to address anxiety, PTSD, and depression.
I have 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health and school- based settings. As an Autism specialist, I work to increase the understanding of challenges unique to Autism and the ability of individuals and families to cope in positive and productive ways. My work with children and adolescents often includes advocacy and collaboration with schools and other relevant treatment and service providers. I aim to build mutual support and understanding across home, academic, and/or vocational environments.
Mindfulness and trauma informed therapies are some of the additional strategies I use to address anxiety, PTSD, and depression.
I have 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in community mental health and school- based settings. As an Autism specialist, I work to increase the understanding of challenges unique to Autism and the ability of individuals and families to cope in positive and productive ways. My work with children and adolescents often includes advocacy and collaboration with schools and other relevant treatment and service providers. I aim to build mutual support and understanding across home, academic, and/or vocational environments.
(240) 772-9439 View (240) 772-9439
Photo of Michael Patrick Donovan, LCPC, Counselor
Michael Patrick Donovan
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855
* NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR THERAPY AND NEUROFEEDBACK TRAINING * I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who helps adults, couples, and teenagers address a variety of mental health concerns, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and difficulties related to life's everyday challenges. I am also board-certified with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA), and can combine neurofeedback training with psychotherapy sessions to help clients conceptualize and address their treatment goals from an emotional, behavioral, and neurological science-based perspective.
* NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR THERAPY AND NEUROFEEDBACK TRAINING * I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who helps adults, couples, and teenagers address a variety of mental health concerns, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and difficulties related to life's everyday challenges. I am also board-certified with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA), and can combine neurofeedback training with psychotherapy sessions to help clients conceptualize and address their treatment goals from an emotional, behavioral, and neurological science-based perspective.
(410) 927-6237 View (410) 927-6237
Photo of Abby Shahar, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Abby Shahar
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855
As a therapist, I bring ten years of experience in mental health treatment with people of all ages, specifically focused on depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and crisis intervention. Aside from talk-therapy, I am an art therapist and I'm happy to incorporate aspects of this technique into your session. Art therapy may not be for everyone, so do not be deterred! I believe strongly in the benefits of mindfulness and client-centered practice in my sessions. I also employ solution-focused techniques, which can give direction and gratification towards fulfilling your goals.
As a therapist, I bring ten years of experience in mental health treatment with people of all ages, specifically focused on depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and crisis intervention. Aside from talk-therapy, I am an art therapist and I'm happy to incorporate aspects of this technique into your session. Art therapy may not be for everyone, so do not be deterred! I believe strongly in the benefits of mindfulness and client-centered practice in my sessions. I also employ solution-focused techniques, which can give direction and gratification towards fulfilling your goals.
(240) 883-5109 View (240) 883-5109
Photo of Stephanie Modler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Modler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
The focus of starting a new therapeutic relationship is to create a safe space where you can unpack challenges, life transitions, stressors and grasp a better understanding of managing diagnosis including ADHD, depression and anxiety. I have also worked with professionals, new and established, to process stress, anxiety, increase interpersonal effectiveness and leadership presence. I have also worked with people with chronic illness, first-responders and caregivers.
The focus of starting a new therapeutic relationship is to create a safe space where you can unpack challenges, life transitions, stressors and grasp a better understanding of managing diagnosis including ADHD, depression and anxiety. I have also worked with professionals, new and established, to process stress, anxiety, increase interpersonal effectiveness and leadership presence. I have also worked with people with chronic illness, first-responders and caregivers.
(240) 679-8388 View (240) 679-8388
Photo of Julie Yook, MA, LCPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Julie Yook
Art Therapist, MA, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
As an EMDR certified therapist, I provide EMDR therapy to facilitate our brain's natural healing process for mental issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, etc.
우리는 과거를 돌이킬 수는 없지만 고통스러운 기억에서 자유로울 수는 있습니다. 우리의 뇌는 스스로 치유하는 능력을 가지고 있습니다. We as human beings may encounter overwhelming challenges that can leave us feeling powerless or hopeless. These emotional disturbances and negative thoughts often come from old self-beliefs and deeply rooted emotions from unresolved past experiences that are adverse or even traumatic. We all have the inherent ability to build resilience and embrace challenges for growth and healing. I help my clients reconnect with their resilience, improve insight into their issues, and ultimately find their own path to happiness, hope and a sense of wholeness.
As an EMDR certified therapist, I provide EMDR therapy to facilitate our brain's natural healing process for mental issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, etc.
우리는 과거를 돌이킬 수는 없지만 고통스러운 기억에서 자유로울 수는 있습니다. 우리의 뇌는 스스로 치유하는 능력을 가지고 있습니다. We as human beings may encounter overwhelming challenges that can leave us feeling powerless or hopeless. These emotional disturbances and negative thoughts often come from old self-beliefs and deeply rooted emotions from unresolved past experiences that are adverse or even traumatic. We all have the inherent ability to build resilience and embrace challenges for growth and healing. I help my clients reconnect with their resilience, improve insight into their issues, and ultimately find their own path to happiness, hope and a sense of wholeness.
(240) 896-1547 View (240) 896-1547
Photo of Marti Cullen, LCPC
Marti Cullen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
Areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, life transitions, women's issues, self esteem, parenting, anger management, couples counseling, and school related issues.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I have more then 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I help treat adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating through difficult and challenging times. While working with me, you will have the space to explore feelings of anxiety, frustration, and sadness in order to better understand yourself. You will regain your inner strength, refocus, and develop skills to tackle daily stressors, learn ways to cope with anxiety, depression or hardships of everyday life, and set personal goals and begin to achieve them.
Areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, life transitions, women's issues, self esteem, parenting, anger management, couples counseling, and school related issues.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I have more then 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I help treat adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating through difficult and challenging times. While working with me, you will have the space to explore feelings of anxiety, frustration, and sadness in order to better understand yourself. You will regain your inner strength, refocus, and develop skills to tackle daily stressors, learn ways to cope with anxiety, depression or hardships of everyday life, and set personal goals and begin to achieve them.
(240) 833-7915 View (240) 833-7915
Photo of Jennifer Cohen, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20855
I have worked extensively with individuals and families who may be struggling with life transitions, communication problems within the family, and other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression and adjustment issues.
Deciding to reach out to a therapist is not an easy task. It is normal to feel anxious about seeking help and trusting another person. As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide an atmosphere in therapy that feels safe and accepting. I use a solution-focused approach to help you reach your goals. I offer practical solutions while also providing insight and support and incorporate various cognitive behavioral strategies and mindfulness techniques as well. My goal for you is to find relief for the issues you are facing so that you may lead a happy and productive life.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families who may be struggling with life transitions, communication problems within the family, and other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression and adjustment issues.
Deciding to reach out to a therapist is not an easy task. It is normal to feel anxious about seeking help and trusting another person. As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide an atmosphere in therapy that feels safe and accepting. I use a solution-focused approach to help you reach your goals. I offer practical solutions while also providing insight and support and incorporate various cognitive behavioral strategies and mindfulness techniques as well. My goal for you is to find relief for the issues you are facing so that you may lead a happy and productive life.
(301) 246-8130 View (301) 246-8130
Photo of Ellen Cohen Ottenstein, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Cohen Ottenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20855
Finding the right therapist is the first step toward achieving the life you desire. As a psychotherapist and Life Coach, I work with adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and major life changes. In feeling safe to fully express yourself in the warm environment of my office, you make continuous progress toward reaching your goals.
Finding the right therapist is the first step toward achieving the life you desire. As a psychotherapist and Life Coach, I work with adults, couples and families on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and major life changes. In feeling safe to fully express yourself in the warm environment of my office, you make continuous progress toward reaching your goals.
(301) 251-8965 View (301) 251-8965
Photo of Sara Aefsky - PDG Therapeutics, LCSW-C, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
PDG Therapeutics
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855
Immediate openings for many insurances and self-pay! PDG Therapeutics provides individual, group, marital, and family therapy services. Our experienced clinicians are available day and evening hours, in order to meet the needs of individuals seeking services. Our services assist with depression, grief, trauma, family conflict, anger, suicide prevention/self harm, anxiety, and many other challenges. Therapy services take place in a warm, comfortable, and supportive environment. PDG Therapeutics' therapists will work with you to establish treatment goals for therapy, and to work toward those goals in a collaborative relationship.
Immediate openings for many insurances and self-pay! PDG Therapeutics provides individual, group, marital, and family therapy services. Our experienced clinicians are available day and evening hours, in order to meet the needs of individuals seeking services. Our services assist with depression, grief, trauma, family conflict, anger, suicide prevention/self harm, anxiety, and many other challenges. Therapy services take place in a warm, comfortable, and supportive environment. PDG Therapeutics' therapists will work with you to establish treatment goals for therapy, and to work toward those goals in a collaborative relationship.
(410) 656-6237 View (410) 656-6237
Photo of Marie B Delices, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie B Delices
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
Through our work together, I can help you elicit your own strengths to help you change unhealthy behaviors; such as substance abuse, anxiety and depression.
I love helping my clients identify where they are feeling stuck and learn what their triggers are so they can feel more in control of their lives. I encourage them to define for themselves what brought them to therapy, what they want from it, and then how it helped them change over the course of time. It is a unique relationship and support, offering perspectives that are not otherwise available. I emphasize that it takes courage, not weakness, to face difficult issues.
Through our work together, I can help you elicit your own strengths to help you change unhealthy behaviors; such as substance abuse, anxiety and depression.
I love helping my clients identify where they are feeling stuck and learn what their triggers are so they can feel more in control of their lives. I encourage them to define for themselves what brought them to therapy, what they want from it, and then how it helped them change over the course of time. It is a unique relationship and support, offering perspectives that are not otherwise available. I emphasize that it takes courage, not weakness, to face difficult issues.
(240) 366-2713 View (240) 366-2713
Photo of Michellee A Jones, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michellee A Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents and their families from various walks of life. I have worked with clients' experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health challenges affecting their socio-emotional functioning. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents and their families- I believe that challenges can be overcome, and stronger, more resilient children, adolescents and their families can emerge, as a result.
I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents and their families from various walks of life. I have worked with clients' experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health challenges affecting their socio-emotional functioning. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents and their families- I believe that challenges can be overcome, and stronger, more resilient children, adolescents and their families can emerge, as a result.
(301) 701-3165 View (301) 701-3165
Photo of Kim Rowan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Rowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
Welcome to the journey of healing and growth! With over 10 years of experience, I'm here to be your trusted companion on the path to emotional wellness. From little ones to seasoned adults, and every heart in between, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through life's twists and turns. Whether it's overcoming trauma, soothing anxiety, lifting the fog of depression, navigating grief, or taming the wild waves of ADHD, together we’ll weave a tapestry of resilience and hope. Let's embark on a journey where every challenge becomes a stepping stone to a brighter more vibrant tomorrow!
Welcome to the journey of healing and growth! With over 10 years of experience, I'm here to be your trusted companion on the path to emotional wellness. From little ones to seasoned adults, and every heart in between, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through life's twists and turns. Whether it's overcoming trauma, soothing anxiety, lifting the fog of depression, navigating grief, or taming the wild waves of ADHD, together we’ll weave a tapestry of resilience and hope. Let's embark on a journey where every challenge becomes a stepping stone to a brighter more vibrant tomorrow!
(301) 265-3640 View (301) 265-3640
Photo of Marti Ann Crosby, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marti Ann Crosby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Derwood, MD 20855  (Online Only)
Currently, services are provided through telehealth. Obstacles and challenges face us throughout life - depression, anxiety, grief, feeling of helplessness. Allow me the opportunity to help you navigate your way. I have more than 30 years experience working with families with children 13 years and older, individual youth 13 years and older and individual adults. Together we can work on how to adjust your approaches to the challenges and develop a happierand more content life. The first session is a "Meet and Greet' - no charge
Currently, services are provided through telehealth. Obstacles and challenges face us throughout life - depression, anxiety, grief, feeling of helplessness. Allow me the opportunity to help you navigate your way. I have more than 30 years experience working with families with children 13 years and older, individual youth 13 years and older and individual adults. Together we can work on how to adjust your approaches to the challenges and develop a happierand more content life. The first session is a "Meet and Greet' - no charge
(240) 249-4556 View (240) 249-4556
Photo of Ingrid Mood, LCPC
Ingrid Mood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Derwood, MD 20855
Ingrid is a Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Neuropsychotherapist, with a specialized focus on stress management, trauma resolution, relational dynamics, and behavioral health, including addictions. Her comprehensive practice is dedicated to supporting individuals (13 and older), families, and couples through a variety of challenges including anxiety and depression, grief and loss, achievement and motivation, personal growth and self-confidence, loneliness, attachment, and conflicts or difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
Ingrid is a Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Neuropsychotherapist, with a specialized focus on stress management, trauma resolution, relational dynamics, and behavioral health, including addictions. Her comprehensive practice is dedicated to supporting individuals (13 and older), families, and couples through a variety of challenges including anxiety and depression, grief and loss, achievement and motivation, personal growth and self-confidence, loneliness, attachment, and conflicts or difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
(240) 698-3557 View (240) 698-3557
Photo of Michelle Chao, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Chao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855  (Online Only)
Hello! Thanks for stopping by to view my profile. I'm Michelle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with over 24 years of experience working in the mental health field. My work encompasses supporting children (9+), teens & adults struggling to cope with the stressors of life, whether it's ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, school and/or behavioral difficulties or self-esteem issues. Together, we'll explore strategies from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and person-centered therapy to improve your overall functioning. My goal is to support you with gaining skills to live your best life.
Hello! Thanks for stopping by to view my profile. I'm Michelle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with over 24 years of experience working in the mental health field. My work encompasses supporting children (9+), teens & adults struggling to cope with the stressors of life, whether it's ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, school and/or behavioral difficulties or self-esteem issues. Together, we'll explore strategies from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and person-centered therapy to improve your overall functioning. My goal is to support you with gaining skills to live your best life.
(240) 348-5198 View (240) 348-5198
Photo of Meg McDonald, LCSW-C, MTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855
I've been working with individuals, couples, and families for over 11 years. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, survivors of domestic and sexual violence, parenting struggles, and families experiencing difficulties. My approach to therapy is Humanistic and Person-Centered, believing the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for creating positive change.
I've been working with individuals, couples, and families for over 11 years. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, survivors of domestic and sexual violence, parenting struggles, and families experiencing difficulties. My approach to therapy is Humanistic and Person-Centered, believing the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for creating positive change.
(240) 660-4261 View (240) 660-4261
Photo of LaShaun Annette Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
LaShaun Annette Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20855
Dr. Williams provides services to individuals looking to reduce and manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve overall functioning, and receive support in facing life challenges. Her therapeutic approach is a collaborative one, involving a process of identifying each client’s specific needs and goals and developing a treatment plan to address these. Dr. Williams’ treatment style has been described as calm, warm, empathic and non judgmental. Within an atmosphere of respect and collaboration, Dr. Williams assists clients in discovering and making effective use of inner and outer resources, so that they may engage in meaningful life experiences.
Dr. Williams provides services to individuals looking to reduce and manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve overall functioning, and receive support in facing life challenges. Her therapeutic approach is a collaborative one, involving a process of identifying each client’s specific needs and goals and developing a treatment plan to address these. Dr. Williams’ treatment style has been described as calm, warm, empathic and non judgmental. Within an atmosphere of respect and collaboration, Dr. Williams assists clients in discovering and making effective use of inner and outer resources, so that they may engage in meaningful life experiences.
(202) 640-4597 View (202) 640-4597
1
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.