Photo of Patria Baugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Patria Baugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
At times things can become so overwhelming that it can create one developing unhealthy habits such as overeating, arguments in relationships, and difficulties at work. There are also cultural factures that can hinder mental health growth, and learning how to appropriately incorporate some cultural practices in therapy can be beneficial. Being a single parent, serious medical diagnosis, self-esteem, and major transitions, can also cause a lot of distress, and learning how to apply distress tolerance and using interpersonal effectiveness tools for a healthy communication can help reduce/decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety.
At times things can become so overwhelming that it can create one developing unhealthy habits such as overeating, arguments in relationships, and difficulties at work. There are also cultural factures that can hinder mental health growth, and learning how to appropriately incorporate some cultural practices in therapy can be beneficial. Being a single parent, serious medical diagnosis, self-esteem, and major transitions, can also cause a lot of distress, and learning how to apply distress tolerance and using interpersonal effectiveness tools for a healthy communication can help reduce/decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(404) 236-6126 View (404) 236-6126
Photo of Pamela Shakir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30326, GA
Pamela Shakir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
Strategically, I have worked with adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with loss, depression, anxiety, rejection, substance abuse and life transitions.
We all have a story. Some of our stories leave footprints that triggers us to not be our best selves leaving us in a sunken place for various reasons. Let us admit it, life happens. In order to be a better you, I believe that healing and happiness begins within ourselves. All that means is telling your own story when you are ready is the most effective way to heal. I provide a warm and nurturing environment that will allow you to work on your innermost deep concerns and surface concerns. My approach is down to earth, non-judgmental, supportive, and honest.
Strategically, I have worked with adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with loss, depression, anxiety, rejection, substance abuse and life transitions.
We all have a story. Some of our stories leave footprints that triggers us to not be our best selves leaving us in a sunken place for various reasons. Let us admit it, life happens. In order to be a better you, I believe that healing and happiness begins within ourselves. All that means is telling your own story when you are ready is the most effective way to heal. I provide a warm and nurturing environment that will allow you to work on your innermost deep concerns and surface concerns. My approach is down to earth, non-judgmental, supportive, and honest.
(661) 546-9149 View (661) 546-9149
Photo of Kathryn Caracappa, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Kathryn Caracappa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am an LPC and received my Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. I believe the healthcare field is moving to an individualized approach and I conceptualize my counseling with a similar focus. I have gained extensive experience in a variety of different modalities- including inpatient units, ERs, school settings, community counseling, and private practice. I counsel adults dealing with various issues including trauma, grief, stress, depression, and behavioral issues. Send me an email or phone call, I'm eager to meet you and begin our journey! EMAIL RECOMMENDED
Welcome! I am an LPC and received my Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. I believe the healthcare field is moving to an individualized approach and I conceptualize my counseling with a similar focus. I have gained extensive experience in a variety of different modalities- including inpatient units, ERs, school settings, community counseling, and private practice. I counsel adults dealing with various issues including trauma, grief, stress, depression, and behavioral issues. Send me an email or phone call, I'm eager to meet you and begin our journey! EMAIL RECOMMENDED
(404) 418-4235 View (404) 418-4235
Photo of Diana France, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Diana France
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
Hi! I'm Diana France a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping you work through challenges that have been keeping you stuck. My specialties include depression and anxiety from mild to severe. Additionally, I work with clients who have experienced trauma. Those with stressors from relationships, work, and college are a favorite of mine as well. I treat clients with all types of Depression and Anxiety symptoms. I have specialized expertise in treating clients who are medication-treatment resistant or who have severe, lifelong depression/anxiety.
Hi! I'm Diana France a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping you work through challenges that have been keeping you stuck. My specialties include depression and anxiety from mild to severe. Additionally, I work with clients who have experienced trauma. Those with stressors from relationships, work, and college are a favorite of mine as well. I treat clients with all types of Depression and Anxiety symptoms. I have specialized expertise in treating clients who are medication-treatment resistant or who have severe, lifelong depression/anxiety.
(470) 410-9484 View (470) 410-9484
Photo of Sheena Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Sheena Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
Typically, I would work with clients from ages 13-99 whose anxiety and depression are interfering with their daily life.
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
Typically, I would work with clients from ages 13-99 whose anxiety and depression are interfering with their daily life.
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
(470) 688-3718 View (470) 688-3718
Photo of Taylor Mackin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30326, GA
Taylor Mackin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
I view therapy as an essential tool to help prioritize, care for, and learn about ourselves. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families facing a range of challenges including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, identity development, family conflict, and chronic illness. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, my primary goal as a clinician is to create a space that facilitates free expression, highlights your natural abilities, and strengthens self-awareness and self-compassion.
I view therapy as an essential tool to help prioritize, care for, and learn about ourselves. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families facing a range of challenges including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, identity development, family conflict, and chronic illness. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, my primary goal as a clinician is to create a space that facilitates free expression, highlights your natural abilities, and strengthens self-awareness and self-compassion.
(404) 948-4555 View (404) 948-4555
Photo of Seek Wise Counsel , Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Seek Wise Counsel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
In my 14+ years as a Therapist I have gathered the skills, experience and clinical expertise in the following areas: Relationship/Marriage Problems, ADHD, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Human Sexuality, Anxiety, Self Love, Self Care, Self Acceptance and Identity issues with internal thoughts such as (Who am I, Is it okay to be who I am, am I worthy.
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
In my 14+ years as a Therapist I have gathered the skills, experience and clinical expertise in the following areas: Relationship/Marriage Problems, ADHD, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Human Sexuality, Anxiety, Self Love, Self Care, Self Acceptance and Identity issues with internal thoughts such as (Who am I, Is it okay to be who I am, am I worthy.
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
(678) 252-5351 View (678) 252-5351
Photo of Benita A Esposito, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Benita A Esposito
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
Are you a high-achieving adult in GA or NC with challenges in your personal or professional relationships? Conflicts can take a toll on your health and your productivity. I help Highly Sensitive People and couples reduce anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, PTSD, and grief. Life's struggles can feel overwhelming, but they can also serve as catalysts for personal growth. You will gain tools to decrease emotional distress, improve communication, and resolve conflicts while building self-confidence. I am dedicated to helping you navigate relationships successfully while being true to your Authentic Self. All sessions are on Zoom.
Are you a high-achieving adult in GA or NC with challenges in your personal or professional relationships? Conflicts can take a toll on your health and your productivity. I help Highly Sensitive People and couples reduce anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, PTSD, and grief. Life's struggles can feel overwhelming, but they can also serve as catalysts for personal growth. You will gain tools to decrease emotional distress, improve communication, and resolve conflicts while building self-confidence. I am dedicated to helping you navigate relationships successfully while being true to your Authentic Self. All sessions are on Zoom.
(678) 712-3405 View (678) 712-3405
Photo of Elzbieta Orlowska, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Elzbieta Orlowska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
I offer you my knowledge, compassion, patience, guidance, humor (when needed) and years of professional experience. I have worked with people who struggle with eating disorders, addiction (substance abuse, recovery), life transitions/divorce, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, grief, and self esteem. I specialize in working with adolescents, their parents, young adults and adults. I believe every person is unique and needs a different and individual therapeutic approach.
I offer you my knowledge, compassion, patience, guidance, humor (when needed) and years of professional experience. I have worked with people who struggle with eating disorders, addiction (substance abuse, recovery), life transitions/divorce, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, grief, and self esteem. I specialize in working with adolescents, their parents, young adults and adults. I believe every person is unique and needs a different and individual therapeutic approach.
(470) 828-3011 View (470) 828-3011
Photo of Nahomie Julien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30326, GA
Nahomie Julien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCII, CDVS, CAMS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
Do you experience challenges related to depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder? Are you currently struggling with relationship difficulties? Perhaps you have a young family member who has encountered behavioral issues that resulted in incarceration. Or maybe you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are searching for a secure and empathetic therapeutic environment. I am available to offer individualized support and attentive listening to your concerns. Let us collaborate to achieve optimal wellness.
Do you experience challenges related to depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder? Are you currently struggling with relationship difficulties? Perhaps you have a young family member who has encountered behavioral issues that resulted in incarceration. Or maybe you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are searching for a secure and empathetic therapeutic environment. I am available to offer individualized support and attentive listening to your concerns. Let us collaborate to achieve optimal wellness.
(678) 336-5782 View (678) 336-5782
Photo of Emily Sarah Katz, Psychologist in 30326, GA
Emily Sarah Katz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
I have specialized training in EMDR, a highly effective technique for healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, phobias and more.
We all have emotional wounds from the past. Left untreated, these experiences can harm us mentally, affect our relationships and make us unhappy. Therapy can help you explore, understand and ultimately heal by addressing the painful memories broken hearts, resentments, worries, and regrets that are often the root cause of the problem. By allowing ourselves to heal and grow, this experiences can also become sources of strengths and wisdom. I offer over a decade of experience as a clinical psychologist, helping people plant the seeds of change.
I have specialized training in EMDR, a highly effective technique for healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, phobias and more.
We all have emotional wounds from the past. Left untreated, these experiences can harm us mentally, affect our relationships and make us unhappy. Therapy can help you explore, understand and ultimately heal by addressing the painful memories broken hearts, resentments, worries, and regrets that are often the root cause of the problem. By allowing ourselves to heal and grow, this experiences can also become sources of strengths and wisdom. I offer over a decade of experience as a clinical psychologist, helping people plant the seeds of change.
(404) 948-4974 View (404) 948-4974
Photo of Angela R. Bethea-Walsh, Psychologist in 30326, GA
Angela R. Bethea-Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
I specialize in evidence-based, culturally-sensitive interventions to treat substance use problems, depression, anxiety, fertility concerns, weight loss, chronic pain management, cultural stress and performance anxiety.
Change can be so difficult, uncomfortable, and even painful. You've tried to make a difference in your life, but without the results you want. Maybe you've stalled for too long in making a life-changing decision. You wonder, "What's wrong with me? I haven't changed yet!" Nothing is wrong with you. I use evidenced-based treatments with a team approach to help people cross the bridge to the life they want. My practice is in "The Queen Building" at The Concourse Corporate Center in the Perimeter area of Atlanta near GA-400 and I-285.
I specialize in evidence-based, culturally-sensitive interventions to treat substance use problems, depression, anxiety, fertility concerns, weight loss, chronic pain management, cultural stress and performance anxiety.
Change can be so difficult, uncomfortable, and even painful. You've tried to make a difference in your life, but without the results you want. Maybe you've stalled for too long in making a life-changing decision. You wonder, "What's wrong with me? I haven't changed yet!" Nothing is wrong with you. I use evidenced-based treatments with a team approach to help people cross the bridge to the life they want. My practice is in "The Queen Building" at The Concourse Corporate Center in the Perimeter area of Atlanta near GA-400 and I-285.
(404) 975-4042 View (404) 975-4042
DuVal Cravens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
Anxiety and Depression.
I offer different types of therapeutic avenues to explore, rework, release and address challenges old or new. We decide the timetable and scope of therapy together whether very focused change is desired or more in depth reworking is wanted. Some people also use therapy to maintain positive gains and have a unique place to speak/ find the truth in a safe, trusting environment. The focus is on enhancing and building on strengths to realize potential based on needs. I use brainspotting, polyvagal informed therapy (Unyte/ILS listening system) and IFS(Internal Family Systems) to deeply and often more rapidly release blocked/frozen issues
Anxiety and Depression.
I offer different types of therapeutic avenues to explore, rework, release and address challenges old or new. We decide the timetable and scope of therapy together whether very focused change is desired or more in depth reworking is wanted. Some people also use therapy to maintain positive gains and have a unique place to speak/ find the truth in a safe, trusting environment. The focus is on enhancing and building on strengths to realize potential based on needs. I use brainspotting, polyvagal informed therapy (Unyte/ILS listening system) and IFS(Internal Family Systems) to deeply and often more rapidly release blocked/frozen issues
(404) 236-6474 View (404) 236-6474
Photo of Tara Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30326, GA
Tara Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
I work with all genders with eating disorders, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, over control, and/or substance abuse.
Connection is the cornerstone of good therapy, and as a person, I am very compassionate, warm and engaging. I work with high achieving, highly driven, people who would like to deepen their experience of connection in life; both to themselves and others. No matter how our lives appear on the outside, many of us feel emotionally lonely and emotionally unsatisfied. I believe that through understanding and awareness, we can move towards becoming our true selves and experience life more deeply. We can learn to connect more fully with ourselves and others and transform our lives.
I work with all genders with eating disorders, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, over control, and/or substance abuse.
Connection is the cornerstone of good therapy, and as a person, I am very compassionate, warm and engaging. I work with high achieving, highly driven, people who would like to deepen their experience of connection in life; both to themselves and others. No matter how our lives appear on the outside, many of us feel emotionally lonely and emotionally unsatisfied. I believe that through understanding and awareness, we can move towards becoming our true selves and experience life more deeply. We can learn to connect more fully with ourselves and others and transform our lives.
(470) 441-4942 View (470) 441-4942
Photo of Charles O'Connor, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Charles O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual addiction/infidelity/dysfunction, and relationship discord.
First of all, thank you for viewing my profile! I want to help! I can assist you as you explore your life experiences and relationships to come to a fuller understanding of yourself and others. I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is active, structured, and goal-directed, which means you play a critical part in the therapeutic process. Therapy is effective and rewarding when your personal and relationship goals are clear and obtainable. I can help you clarify your goals and help you reach them in a way in which you feel capable, comfortable, and confident.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual addiction/infidelity/dysfunction, and relationship discord.
First of all, thank you for viewing my profile! I want to help! I can assist you as you explore your life experiences and relationships to come to a fuller understanding of yourself and others. I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is active, structured, and goal-directed, which means you play a critical part in the therapeutic process. Therapy is effective and rewarding when your personal and relationship goals are clear and obtainable. I can help you clarify your goals and help you reach them in a way in which you feel capable, comfortable, and confident.
(678) 929-9691 View (678) 929-9691
Photo of Jeanne Montgomery, Marriage & Family Therapist in 30326, GA
Jeanne Montgomery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
I have been practicing as a Family Therapist for 40+ years. My clients are families, couples, divorced parents with parenting issues, blended families. I also see individuals who have issues related to depression, anxiety and family of origin struggles. I specialize in working with adoptive families, people who are interested in adoption and adoptees. I am an adoptive parent. I work with families dealing with adult children who have a hard time separating and multi-generational families with issues in the larger family system. Lastly, I am a cancer survivor and work with families struggling with health issues.
I have been practicing as a Family Therapist for 40+ years. My clients are families, couples, divorced parents with parenting issues, blended families. I also see individuals who have issues related to depression, anxiety and family of origin struggles. I specialize in working with adoptive families, people who are interested in adoption and adoptees. I am an adoptive parent. I work with families dealing with adult children who have a hard time separating and multi-generational families with issues in the larger family system. Lastly, I am a cancer survivor and work with families struggling with health issues.
(404) 633-3347 View (404) 633-3347
Photo of Madison Peters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30326, GA
Madison Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
Much of my practice focuses on parent coaching and working with youth/young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, impulsivity, self-harm, and emotional dysregulation. Many of my clients have experienced complex trauma which has left them feeling lonely, misunderstood, and hopeless. My clients desire to feel validated and learn new ways to cope with life's challenges. My clients are looking for practical solutions to feel better, boost self-esteem, and strengthen their interpersonal relationships.
Much of my practice focuses on parent coaching and working with youth/young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, impulsivity, self-harm, and emotional dysregulation. Many of my clients have experienced complex trauma which has left them feeling lonely, misunderstood, and hopeless. My clients desire to feel validated and learn new ways to cope with life's challenges. My clients are looking for practical solutions to feel better, boost self-esteem, and strengthen their interpersonal relationships.
(678) 551-6114 View (678) 551-6114
Photo of Jennifer Bailey, Psychologist in 30326, GA
Jennifer Bailey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
Dr. Bailey is a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, OCD/panic, trauma and attachment disorders, executive functioning difficulties, behavioral issues, school refusal, social and academic difficulties and family issues. She provides individual and family therapy, group therapy, parent coaching, school consultation, in-home services and psychological evaluations. Therapeutically, she utilizes scientifically supported therapy techniques that are specifically chosen to meet each client and family's needs.
Dr. Bailey is a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, OCD/panic, trauma and attachment disorders, executive functioning difficulties, behavioral issues, school refusal, social and academic difficulties and family issues. She provides individual and family therapy, group therapy, parent coaching, school consultation, in-home services and psychological evaluations. Therapeutically, she utilizes scientifically supported therapy techniques that are specifically chosen to meet each client and family's needs.
(770) 913-6183 View (770) 913-6183
Photo of Valarie Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 30326, GA
Valarie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, GA 30326
I believe that we have all that we need already inside of us - therapy can be a process of uncovering those things that we’ve forgotten or unlearned. Whether you’re wanting to better manage anxiety and/or depression, increase communication and relationship skills or are interested in exploring more depth work, I’m excited that you’re considering therapy. I'll partner with you and we'll work together as you dig deeper, uncover insights, and make changes that can result in a life better than you ever imagined. I’ll help you find your own truth and to grow more fully into yourself.
I believe that we have all that we need already inside of us - therapy can be a process of uncovering those things that we’ve forgotten or unlearned. Whether you’re wanting to better manage anxiety and/or depression, increase communication and relationship skills or are interested in exploring more depth work, I’m excited that you’re considering therapy. I'll partner with you and we'll work together as you dig deeper, uncover insights, and make changes that can result in a life better than you ever imagined. I’ll help you find your own truth and to grow more fully into yourself.
(404) 390-2171 View (404) 390-2171
Photo of Kristen Albritton, Licensed Professional Counselor in 30326, GA
Kristen Albritton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, GA 30326
Hello and welcome to my page! Reaching out is the first step towards healing and I'm glad you are here. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and clear. I specialize in treating recovery from childhood abuse and neglect, complex trauma/PTSD, and dissociative disorders. I also enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, dating and relationships, family of origin issues, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome to my page! Reaching out is the first step towards healing and I'm glad you are here. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and clear. I specialize in treating recovery from childhood abuse and neglect, complex trauma/PTSD, and dissociative disorders. I also enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, dating and relationships, family of origin issues, and life transitions.
(470) 243-8310 View (470) 243-8310
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.