Photo of Kara Sheehan, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22030, VA
Kara Sheehan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am an energetic and compassionate therapist who received my Master's degree from GW. I specialize in addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, and various mood disorders. My clients have described me as down-to-earth, present and intuitive. I have a unique knack in connecting with clients and provide a non-judgmental space. I tailor each therapeutic experience to the needs of each client but also specialize in utilizing art therapy in session.
I am an energetic and compassionate therapist who received my Master's degree from GW. I specialize in addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, and various mood disorders. My clients have described me as down-to-earth, present and intuitive. I have a unique knack in connecting with clients and provide a non-judgmental space. I tailor each therapeutic experience to the needs of each client but also specialize in utilizing art therapy in session.
(571) 946-5072 View (571) 946-5072
Photo of Laveena Khanchandani, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Laveena Khanchandani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Her specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment, & autism spectrum disorders.
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
Her specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment, & autism spectrum disorders.
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
(571) 260-8034 View (571) 260-8034
Photo of Grae Worthington, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Grae Worthington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a passionate advocate for my clients & have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, & families. I specialize in working with populations struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief & loss. My therapeutic approach is tailored to each individual, but often utilizes Person-centered counseling, Solution-focused Brief counseling, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a passionate advocate for my clients & have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, & families. I specialize in working with populations struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief & loss. My therapeutic approach is tailored to each individual, but often utilizes Person-centered counseling, Solution-focused Brief counseling, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(571) 351-1055 View (571) 351-1055
Photo of Naglaa B. Moussa, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Naglaa B. Moussa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise consist of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, codependency, addictions, divorce, relationship issues, family conflict, marital problems, parenting, spirituality, coping skills, Christian counseling, intellectual disability, and acculturation.
Embracing the uniqueness of each individual, my therapeutic approach is centered on tailored, supportive, and collaborative methods. Together, we will work to integrate profound insights and self-awareness into your behavioral patterns, fostering processed and healthy emotional reactions. In therapy, my aim is to guide you through challenging life experiences that may seem persistent. You'll gain control over your choices, heal from the past, and develop coping strategies, empowering you to overcome obstacles and reach your full potential.
My areas of expertise consist of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, codependency, addictions, divorce, relationship issues, family conflict, marital problems, parenting, spirituality, coping skills, Christian counseling, intellectual disability, and acculturation.
Embracing the uniqueness of each individual, my therapeutic approach is centered on tailored, supportive, and collaborative methods. Together, we will work to integrate profound insights and self-awareness into your behavioral patterns, fostering processed and healthy emotional reactions. In therapy, my aim is to guide you through challenging life experiences that may seem persistent. You'll gain control over your choices, heal from the past, and develop coping strategies, empowering you to overcome obstacles and reach your full potential.
(703) 972-1797 View (703) 972-1797
Photo of Dr. Ryan Malone, Psychologist in 22030, VA
Dr. Ryan Malone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone. I specialize in the treatment of depression, high-functioning autism and Asperger's, ADHD, substance use and addiction, trauma and PTSD, low self-esteem, and relationship issues. I can also offer sport performance training to athletes at any level, as well as career counseling to professionals looking to enhance their motivation, satisfaction, and/or self worth in the workplace.
Life can be challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone. I specialize in the treatment of depression, high-functioning autism and Asperger's, ADHD, substance use and addiction, trauma and PTSD, low self-esteem, and relationship issues. I can also offer sport performance training to athletes at any level, as well as career counseling to professionals looking to enhance their motivation, satisfaction, and/or self worth in the workplace.
(571) 568-7315 View (571) 568-7315
Photo of Danielle M Causley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Danielle M Causley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I offer both individual and group therapy to give your child the skills they need to navigate life and manage anxiety and depression.
Are you concerned that your child is worrying too much or their sadness is overwhelming them? It is painful to see your child nervous, isolated, unhappy, and alone. You may be worried that your teen is hurting but they will not open up to you. You know your teen should be active and engaged in a social life but they spend most of their time at home or on their electronic devices. Maybe your home life has become stressful and consumed with conflict and stress. You are sure that therapy is a good idea but you have no idea on how to convince them to try it out.
I offer both individual and group therapy to give your child the skills they need to navigate life and manage anxiety and depression.
Are you concerned that your child is worrying too much or their sadness is overwhelming them? It is painful to see your child nervous, isolated, unhappy, and alone. You may be worried that your teen is hurting but they will not open up to you. You know your teen should be active and engaged in a social life but they spend most of their time at home or on their electronic devices. Maybe your home life has become stressful and consumed with conflict and stress. You are sure that therapy is a good idea but you have no idea on how to convince them to try it out.
(571) 620-6734 View (571) 620-6734
Photo of Kristin Bultman, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22030, VA
Kristin Bultman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I believe in being a kind and compassionate therapist. I have years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in various roles throughout my career. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, including individuals who are navigating life stressors, coping with depression, anxiety, or have experienced trauma.
I believe in being a kind and compassionate therapist. I have years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in various roles throughout my career. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients, including individuals who are navigating life stressors, coping with depression, anxiety, or have experienced trauma.
(571) 202-6459 View (571) 202-6459
Photo of Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
(202) 217-1193 View (202) 217-1193
Photo of Sally Harney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Sally Harney
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you a teen (12+) or an adult struggling with the following: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, understanding social cues, self-esteem, self-assertiveness, trauma, transgender transition, gender questioning/dysphoria and/or general life stressors and transitions? These are the issues that I work on the most with my clients. Everyone has a different mix of issues or person struggles. I tailor your psychotherapy sessions to support your needs. Together, we can work through the "muck," identify unhealthy coping strategies, and get you on the road to mental wellness.
Are you a teen (12+) or an adult struggling with the following: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, understanding social cues, self-esteem, self-assertiveness, trauma, transgender transition, gender questioning/dysphoria and/or general life stressors and transitions? These are the issues that I work on the most with my clients. Everyone has a different mix of issues or person struggles. I tailor your psychotherapy sessions to support your needs. Together, we can work through the "muck," identify unhealthy coping strategies, and get you on the road to mental wellness.
(571) 459-1080 View (571) 459-1080
Photo of Christine Gauthier, Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 22030, VA
Christine Gauthier
Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC, SP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
A good clinical match would be those seeking clarity related to life decisions, transitions, or relationships, those trying to overcome anxiety or depression, improve their self-esteem, or come to a place of contentment with their lives. I really enjoy working with college students or other adults on the cusp, or in the midst, of life changes.
A good clinical match would be those seeking clarity related to life decisions, transitions, or relationships, those trying to overcome anxiety or depression, improve their self-esteem, or come to a place of contentment with their lives. I really enjoy working with college students or other adults on the cusp, or in the midst, of life changes.
(571) 946-7981 View (571) 946-7981
Photo of Veritas Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Veritas Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Break Free from sadness and stress! Veritas Counseling is a general counseling practice treating many of life's issues: anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family therapy, postpartum, child behaviors, parent coaching, trauma, PTSD, autism, ADHD, stress management, grief, death, and career counseling.  We do not participate with any insurance companies, but we will give you a detailed receipt to submit to your insurance for reimbursement of fees. We also accept all HSA/FSA funds, so if you have HSA money saved you can use it for counseling! Upon client request we also offer Catholic and Christian counseling.
Break Free from sadness and stress! Veritas Counseling is a general counseling practice treating many of life's issues: anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family therapy, postpartum, child behaviors, parent coaching, trauma, PTSD, autism, ADHD, stress management, grief, death, and career counseling.  We do not participate with any insurance companies, but we will give you a detailed receipt to submit to your insurance for reimbursement of fees. We also accept all HSA/FSA funds, so if you have HSA money saved you can use it for counseling! Upon client request we also offer Catholic and Christian counseling.
(540) 305-8569 View (540) 305-8569
Photo of Joanna Leigh Macias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Joanna Leigh Macias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience working with clients ages 18+ who are struggling with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Now Accepting New Clients! We all go through life changes and transitions, and I am here to evoke empathy and compassion to support you along life’s journey. You can expect genuine kindness and compassion from me as we work together to address your concerns or conditions in each session. I will provide a warm, safe and nurturing environment for you to share your deepest concerns, thoughts, and feelings. Together, we will develop tools that will help you cope with life’s challenges and mental health concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience working with clients ages 18+ who are struggling with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Now Accepting New Clients! We all go through life changes and transitions, and I am here to evoke empathy and compassion to support you along life’s journey. You can expect genuine kindness and compassion from me as we work together to address your concerns or conditions in each session. I will provide a warm, safe and nurturing environment for you to share your deepest concerns, thoughts, and feelings. Together, we will develop tools that will help you cope with life’s challenges and mental health concerns.
(540) 572-7893 View (540) 572-7893
Photo of Joleen Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Joleen Kim Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I live in Virginia Beach, Va and am licensed in Virginia, Utah, and Nevada. I received my MSW at The Catholic University of America and have been practicing therapy for 6 years. I feel that therapy is a gift you give yourself. I work solely online as a telehealth therapist. I enjoy meeting you where you are at and helping you get through the rough spots, whether it's finding your voice, identifying the obstacle and need for change, or just understanding from a different perspective. I work mainly with clients who have experience with anxiety, depression, and trauma in their life.
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I live in Virginia Beach, Va and am licensed in Virginia, Utah, and Nevada. I received my MSW at The Catholic University of America and have been practicing therapy for 6 years. I feel that therapy is a gift you give yourself. I work solely online as a telehealth therapist. I enjoy meeting you where you are at and helping you get through the rough spots, whether it's finding your voice, identifying the obstacle and need for change, or just understanding from a different perspective. I work mainly with clients who have experience with anxiety, depression, and trauma in their life.
(804) 534-2607 View (804) 534-2607
Photo of Matt Christian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Matt Christian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Reaching out for help takes so much courage! You or your child may be experiencing a crisis, difficult life transition, or just haven't been feeling like yourself lately. Whether it is depression, anxiety, addiction or behavioral problems, it can often feel exhausting and hopeless. However, I believe wholeheartedly that change is always possible, no matter how hard life gets. I create a warm, compassionate environment in which you feel heard and respected. You are the expert on your life, not me. Together we can develop insight and practical solutions that move you closer to the great life you deserve!
Reaching out for help takes so much courage! You or your child may be experiencing a crisis, difficult life transition, or just haven't been feeling like yourself lately. Whether it is depression, anxiety, addiction or behavioral problems, it can often feel exhausting and hopeless. However, I believe wholeheartedly that change is always possible, no matter how hard life gets. I create a warm, compassionate environment in which you feel heard and respected. You are the expert on your life, not me. Together we can develop insight and practical solutions that move you closer to the great life you deserve!
(703) 646-7664 x14 View (703) 646-7664 x14
Photo of Ashlea Hopkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Ashlea Hopkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
If you are an adult or child struggling with anxiety, depression, motivation, or performance anxiety I can help.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
If you are an adult or child struggling with anxiety, depression, motivation, or performance anxiety I can help.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
(540) 217-4270 View (540) 217-4270
Photo of Dawn Gallagher, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Dawn Gallagher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Dawn is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 30 years of helping experience. Dawn is a compassionate, caring, & empathic therapist with extensive experience working within inpatient & outpatient mental health settings. She utilizes an integrative & strength-based approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, & Solution-Focused Therapy. Dawn specializes in many areas including, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, & stage of life concerns.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Dawn is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 30 years of helping experience. Dawn is a compassionate, caring, & empathic therapist with extensive experience working within inpatient & outpatient mental health settings. She utilizes an integrative & strength-based approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, & Solution-Focused Therapy. Dawn specializes in many areas including, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, & stage of life concerns.
(301) 769-5878 View (301) 769-5878
Photo of Beautiful Journey Consultant Mental Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22030, VA
Beautiful Journey Consultant Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
My experiences in Substance Use Disorders, Anger, Grief, Low Self-Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (PTSD).
I am compassionate and believe in meeting a person where they are utilizing their strengths to help them manage their emotional stability in a non-judgmental environment, with the belief we are equal. My belief and approach are based on the client’s oversee their own counseling experiences working together to gain tools needed to manage their own emotional stability. I integrated several different approaches such as CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment in different and unique therapeutic areas along with therapeutic play therapy.
My experiences in Substance Use Disorders, Anger, Grief, Low Self-Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (PTSD).
I am compassionate and believe in meeting a person where they are utilizing their strengths to help them manage their emotional stability in a non-judgmental environment, with the belief we are equal. My belief and approach are based on the client’s oversee their own counseling experiences working together to gain tools needed to manage their own emotional stability. I integrated several different approaches such as CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment in different and unique therapeutic areas along with therapeutic play therapy.
(757) 906-6251 View (757) 906-6251
Photo of Juan P. Barrios-Theodore A. Hoch Edd Lpc, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22030, VA
Juan P. Barrios-Theodore A. Hoch Edd Lpc
Pre-Licensed Professional, LRPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Do you feel lonely, overwhelmed, or a lack of motivation? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties? Working together, you will learn how brave you can be, to build virtue, and that you are valuable. Trabajando juntos, aprenderán lo valiente que pueden ser para construir la virtud y lo valioso que son. Mis clientes son jóvenes, adultos y padres. My clients are youth, adults, and parents who receive trauma-informed support, learning to take each day into your own hands, create meaningful change, and build up your strengths. I am a Resident in Counseling with Ted Hoch LPC. English and Spanish open.
Do you feel lonely, overwhelmed, or a lack of motivation? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties? Working together, you will learn how brave you can be, to build virtue, and that you are valuable. Trabajando juntos, aprenderán lo valiente que pueden ser para construir la virtud y lo valioso que son. Mis clientes son jóvenes, adultos y padres. My clients are youth, adults, and parents who receive trauma-informed support, learning to take each day into your own hands, create meaningful change, and build up your strengths. I am a Resident in Counseling with Ted Hoch LPC. English and Spanish open.
(571) 389-7048 View (571) 389-7048
Photo of Brittany Musaffi in 22030, VA
Brittany Musaffi
PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Additionally offered are therapeutic services to those experiencing difficulties with depression, anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.
I am accepting new patient for telehealth ONLY and am offering video sessions via Doxy.me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I'm trained Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and play therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. I also conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and my bachelors from Penn State University.
Additionally offered are therapeutic services to those experiencing difficulties with depression, anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.
I am accepting new patient for telehealth ONLY and am offering video sessions via Doxy.me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I'm trained Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and play therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. I also conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and my bachelors from Penn State University.
(571) 350-3301 View (571) 350-3301
Photo of Dan Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22030, VA
Dan Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Depression, Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities take a toll on relationships and your ability to live a fulfilling life. If you have been thinking about seeking help to manage challenges, I'm dedicated to helping you and your family solve problems, enhance relationships, and create a life worth living.
Depression, Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities take a toll on relationships and your ability to live a fulfilling life. If you have been thinking about seeking help to manage challenges, I'm dedicated to helping you and your family solve problems, enhance relationships, and create a life worth living.
(703) 691-5326 View (703) 691-5326
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.