Depression Therapists in 30342

Photo of Daniel J. Wachtel, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel J. Wachtel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
Specialties include work with older adults, chronic illness, end of life, dementia, adults caring for loved ones (Caregivers), sleep difficulty, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems.
I am a practicing clinical psychologist and Geropsychologist in Atlanta, Georgia (Sandy Springs). I work with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. My commitment is to help my clients experience relief from their immediate problems, and to obtain a more meaningful and deeper understanding of themselves for longer-lasting change in concert with their life goals. Services provided include, but are not limited to, crisis intervention, individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychological evaluations, education, and consultation.
Specialties include work with older adults, chronic illness, end of life, dementia, adults caring for loved ones (Caregivers), sleep difficulty, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems.
I am a practicing clinical psychologist and Geropsychologist in Atlanta, Georgia (Sandy Springs). I work with individuals, couples, groups and organizations. My commitment is to help my clients experience relief from their immediate problems, and to obtain a more meaningful and deeper understanding of themselves for longer-lasting change in concert with their life goals. Services provided include, but are not limited to, crisis intervention, individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychological evaluations, education, and consultation.
(404) 994-3560 View (404) 994-3560
Photo of Shanae Benito, MA,  APC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanae Benito
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, APC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
Specializing in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, and stress, Shanae focuses on serving minority women and men, couples, and adolescents but warmly welcomes individuals from all backgrounds.
Shanae Benito is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health from Adams State University, graduating with a commendable 3.8 GPA. She holds the esteemed title of National Certified Counselor (NCC) and is a distinguished member of Chi Sigma Iota, the premier international academic honor society for counseling practitioners, educators, and students.
Specializing in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, and stress, Shanae focuses on serving minority women and men, couples, and adolescents but warmly welcomes individuals from all backgrounds.
Shanae Benito is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health from Adams State University, graduating with a commendable 3.8 GPA. She holds the esteemed title of National Certified Counselor (NCC) and is a distinguished member of Chi Sigma Iota, the premier international academic honor society for counseling practitioners, educators, and students.
(770) 404-9961 View (770) 404-9961
Photo of Dana Evans, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
I offer an empathetic, goal-oriented therapeutic experience and I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief & loss, relationship concerns, caregiver stress and substance abuse.
My practice focuses on providing evidence-based treatment for adults, of all ages, with a variety of concerns. I enjoy helping people with emotional and behavioral health issues improve their sense of well-being, alleviate feelings of distress, resolve concerns and live a better life. I have over 20 years of experience working in multiple mental & behavioral health environments to include inpatient, out-patient, military, substance abuse, geriatric and employment settings.
I offer an empathetic, goal-oriented therapeutic experience and I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief & loss, relationship concerns, caregiver stress and substance abuse.
My practice focuses on providing evidence-based treatment for adults, of all ages, with a variety of concerns. I enjoy helping people with emotional and behavioral health issues improve their sense of well-being, alleviate feelings of distress, resolve concerns and live a better life. I have over 20 years of experience working in multiple mental & behavioral health environments to include inpatient, out-patient, military, substance abuse, geriatric and employment settings.
(470) 486-9857 View (470) 486-9857
Photo of Sandtrice D Russell, LPC, CPCS, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandtrice D Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, MS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
Throughout my career I’ve worked with individuals across various populations providing mental health counseling, career counseling, mentor-ship, and life coaching services. I have worked in a variety of settings to include residential group homes, outpatient mental health, inpatient mental health, and community based counseling. I specialize in working with clients coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, trauma, and individuals of the LGBT community who are seeking a safe space. I also have experience working with Veterans and Active Duty Serviceman.
Throughout my career I’ve worked with individuals across various populations providing mental health counseling, career counseling, mentor-ship, and life coaching services. I have worked in a variety of settings to include residential group homes, outpatient mental health, inpatient mental health, and community based counseling. I specialize in working with clients coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, trauma, and individuals of the LGBT community who are seeking a safe space. I also have experience working with Veterans and Active Duty Serviceman.
(678) 940-5653 View (678) 940-5653
Photo of Jody Baumstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jody Baumstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
I have a broad range of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, family dynamics, grief and loss and navigating life transitions. Recognizing the courage and vulnerability it takes to enter into a therapeutic relationship, I make every effort to create a comfortable, safe space that makes each individual feel genuinely seen, heard and understood. I practice from a place of openness and curiosity. That means I don’t make assumptions and I don’t have one set, structured approach. With solution-focused techniques and a person-centered philosophy, I empower clients to overcome challenges using their own unique strengths.
I have a broad range of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, family dynamics, grief and loss and navigating life transitions. Recognizing the courage and vulnerability it takes to enter into a therapeutic relationship, I make every effort to create a comfortable, safe space that makes each individual feel genuinely seen, heard and understood. I practice from a place of openness and curiosity. That means I don’t make assumptions and I don’t have one set, structured approach. With solution-focused techniques and a person-centered philosophy, I empower clients to overcome challenges using their own unique strengths.
(404) 442-4862 View (404) 442-4862
Photo of Svetlana Markova, PhD, Psychologist
Svetlana Markova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist with 19 years of clinical experience, and I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with people who are struggling with the effects of trauma and stressful events, depression, anxiety, and behavior problems, including sexual behavior problems. I also help people with impulse control difficulties, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and eating problems.
I am a psychologist with 19 years of clinical experience, and I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with people who are struggling with the effects of trauma and stressful events, depression, anxiety, and behavior problems, including sexual behavior problems. I also help people with impulse control difficulties, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and eating problems.
(678) 940-7887 View (678) 940-7887
Photo of Ashley Drake - AND Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
AND Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
Having a hard time getting through those cognitive distortions? Well look no further! ! I help individuals and couples locate healthier thought patterns. Let's work together to attain the necessary balance needed to structure you mental health. I collaborate with individuals to increase their sense of security, assertiveness, confidence and put the anxious thoughts and self-doubt in its place! Anxiety, trauma or depression cannot have you! I assist you in reinforcing your levels control. Let's modify those perceptions that have lead to unhealthy behaviors and re-program the brain to live up to your full potential!
Having a hard time getting through those cognitive distortions? Well look no further! ! I help individuals and couples locate healthier thought patterns. Let's work together to attain the necessary balance needed to structure you mental health. I collaborate with individuals to increase their sense of security, assertiveness, confidence and put the anxious thoughts and self-doubt in its place! Anxiety, trauma or depression cannot have you! I assist you in reinforcing your levels control. Let's modify those perceptions that have lead to unhealthy behaviors and re-program the brain to live up to your full potential!
(404) 737-0180 View (404) 737-0180
Photo of Dr. Crystal Burwell, PhD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Crystal Burwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342  (Online Only)
My specialties include eating disorders, empaths/highly sensitive people (HSP), depression, & anxiety.
I'm Dr. Burwell, and I can help you find your voice. Your voice is all you have. Are you struggling to cope with life? You're not alone. We're all struggling in an uncertain world. Life is messy, but I can help you clean it up. Therapy improves emotional wellness, relationships, and connectivity to your higher power. It's time to prepare for soul surgery! Your wellness is critical to every aspect of life. Your health is connected to your wealth. This process yields dividends with a high return on your investment. Begin your work today!
My specialties include eating disorders, empaths/highly sensitive people (HSP), depression, & anxiety.
I'm Dr. Burwell, and I can help you find your voice. Your voice is all you have. Are you struggling to cope with life? You're not alone. We're all struggling in an uncertain world. Life is messy, but I can help you clean it up. Therapy improves emotional wellness, relationships, and connectivity to your higher power. It's time to prepare for soul surgery! Your wellness is critical to every aspect of life. Your health is connected to your wealth. This process yields dividends with a high return on your investment. Begin your work today!
(404) 341-7269 View (404) 341-7269
Photo of Maria Gonzalez-Iglesias, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Gonzalez-Iglesias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Maria is passionate about building on client strengths to overcome obstacles in life. It is in teaching clients coping strategies that they are able to be successful in life regardless of past trauma. Maria uses an eclectic approach to therapy, including psychodynamic theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach. She has experience in working with clients dealing with anxiety and depression, suicidal ideation, abuse, parenting issues and divorce.
Maria is passionate about building on client strengths to overcome obstacles in life. It is in teaching clients coping strategies that they are able to be successful in life regardless of past trauma. Maria uses an eclectic approach to therapy, including psychodynamic theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach. She has experience in working with clients dealing with anxiety and depression, suicidal ideation, abuse, parenting issues and divorce.
(678) 990-9212 View (678) 990-9212
Photo of Serena Johnson, APC, NCC, Counselor
Serena Johnson
Counselor, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
I'd love to work together on topics of anxiety, self-confidence, identity, relationship issues, religious issues, perfectionism, and depression.
Everyone experiences feeling down or anxious at some point in their lives. But when you feel like that every day, or anxious thoughts begin to be your only thoughts, life gets all that much harder to navigate. You may be saying to yourself, "Why am I like this?" or, "When this is over, I'll be happy", but you're getting tired of saying the same things over and over. It's distressing to feel like you're struggling and not know how to fix it. If this sounds like you, just know: things can get better! Anxiety and depression don't have to rule your life. Working together in therapy will help you build and practice the skills you need.
I'd love to work together on topics of anxiety, self-confidence, identity, relationship issues, religious issues, perfectionism, and depression.
Everyone experiences feeling down or anxious at some point in their lives. But when you feel like that every day, or anxious thoughts begin to be your only thoughts, life gets all that much harder to navigate. You may be saying to yourself, "Why am I like this?" or, "When this is over, I'll be happy", but you're getting tired of saying the same things over and over. It's distressing to feel like you're struggling and not know how to fix it. If this sounds like you, just know: things can get better! Anxiety and depression don't have to rule your life. Working together in therapy will help you build and practice the skills you need.
(470) 688-2253 View (470) 688-2253
Photo of Brandon Landry, PsyD, Psychologist
Brandon Landry
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Brandon Landry, PsyD., is a licensed psychologist with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in Chicago. He is specialized in the practices of existential and analytic psychology: from helping others adapt to everyday life stressors and transitions, to discovering the purpose for our being. The goal of relational work is to discover the truth of who we are. Dr. Landry has extensive experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, grief, identity issues, and spiritual experiences
Brandon Landry, PsyD., is a licensed psychologist with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in Chicago. He is specialized in the practices of existential and analytic psychology: from helping others adapt to everyday life stressors and transitions, to discovering the purpose for our being. The goal of relational work is to discover the truth of who we are. Dr. Landry has extensive experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, grief, identity issues, and spiritual experiences
(404) 975-2728 View (404) 975-2728
Photo of Ayana Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayana Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
I'm Ayana Lewis and I am a licensed clinical therapist in Georgia and Texas. I work well with those wanting to learn skills to better manage Anxiety and/or Depression. I also help many navigate their relationships with others while working on their own self-concept (how they see themselves and the world around them). I work well with clients that are experiencing low self-esteem and self-worth. I help clients recognize their value and how they are presenting to the world around them. Additionally, I assist those attempting to navigate life transitions including relationships, work, or family matters.
I'm Ayana Lewis and I am a licensed clinical therapist in Georgia and Texas. I work well with those wanting to learn skills to better manage Anxiety and/or Depression. I also help many navigate their relationships with others while working on their own self-concept (how they see themselves and the world around them). I work well with clients that are experiencing low self-esteem and self-worth. I help clients recognize their value and how they are presenting to the world around them. Additionally, I assist those attempting to navigate life transitions including relationships, work, or family matters.
(678) 324-3424 View (678) 324-3424
Photo of Vaya Fraley - I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
Are you haunted by your past? Experiencing feelings of anxiety, too many sleepless nights, or torturing yourself with guilt? Stop suffering in silence. It's time to heal! I am Vaya Fraley, aka "The Well-Abled Therapist", Co-founder of I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, and Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia. I specialize in serving Black women with visible disabilities/chronic illness who struggle with emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Are you haunted by your past? Experiencing feelings of anxiety, too many sleepless nights, or torturing yourself with guilt? Stop suffering in silence. It's time to heal! I am Vaya Fraley, aka "The Well-Abled Therapist", Co-founder of I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, and Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia. I specialize in serving Black women with visible disabilities/chronic illness who struggle with emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(614) 858-8669 View (614) 858-8669
Photo of Kemesha Nickelson - Kemesha's Therapy Space, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kemesha's Therapy Space
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
Welcome to Kemesha’s Therapy Space! Life can be overwhelming at times, whether you're a young adult navigating transitions, a family dealing with conflict, a couple looking to reconnect, or a preteen or teen facing the challenges of adolescence. You don’t have to go through it alone—I'm here to help with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and trauma. Together, we’ll face these challenges and work towards a future where you feel heard, supported, and hopeful.
Welcome to Kemesha’s Therapy Space! Life can be overwhelming at times, whether you're a young adult navigating transitions, a family dealing with conflict, a couple looking to reconnect, or a preteen or teen facing the challenges of adolescence. You don’t have to go through it alone—I'm here to help with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and trauma. Together, we’ll face these challenges and work towards a future where you feel heard, supported, and hopeful.
(470) 397-1419 View (470) 397-1419
Photo of Crystal N. Whetstone, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal N. Whetstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
I am highly skilled in working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, attachment issues, differences in parenting styles, relationship or marital issues, and more.
Everyone experiences the usual ups and downs that life throws at you. Sometimes, these moments in our lives become more than we can handle alone. Do you find yourself overwhelmed and not knowing when it's okay to ask for help? It’s not easy, but it can be the first step toward healthier functioning, improved relationships, & personal growth. Together, in a safe & supportive environment, we can uncover destructive patterns, identify strengths, & develop healthier ways of coping. Let me help guide you on your journey to find peace, strength, healing, & to become the best version of yourself.
I am highly skilled in working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, attachment issues, differences in parenting styles, relationship or marital issues, and more.
Everyone experiences the usual ups and downs that life throws at you. Sometimes, these moments in our lives become more than we can handle alone. Do you find yourself overwhelmed and not knowing when it's okay to ask for help? It’s not easy, but it can be the first step toward healthier functioning, improved relationships, & personal growth. Together, in a safe & supportive environment, we can uncover destructive patterns, identify strengths, & develop healthier ways of coping. Let me help guide you on your journey to find peace, strength, healing, & to become the best version of yourself.
(478) 395-8004 View (478) 395-8004
Photo of Alicia Allison Porter, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Allison Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
My expertise lies in treating anxiety disorders, OCD as well as working with clients facing depression, grief, childhood trauma, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation and parent-child interactions.
I believe in helping people discover their ability to be resilient and how to live in the present moment. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming with too many expectations from school, work, friends, etc. Anxiety is normal, until it becomes unmanageable and begins to restrict your ability to function in your daily life. I can help you push back on your anxiety and learn to feel better equipped to set boundaries with anxiety.
My expertise lies in treating anxiety disorders, OCD as well as working with clients facing depression, grief, childhood trauma, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation and parent-child interactions.
I believe in helping people discover their ability to be resilient and how to live in the present moment. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming with too many expectations from school, work, friends, etc. Anxiety is normal, until it becomes unmanageable and begins to restrict your ability to function in your daily life. I can help you push back on your anxiety and learn to feel better equipped to set boundaries with anxiety.
(404) 719-4274 View (404) 719-4274
Photo of Dana M Lindsay, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana M Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
(404) 666-8326 View (404) 666-8326
Photo of Nancy Cahir, PhD, Psychologist
Nancy Cahir
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
I strongly believe that asking for help with personal issues is very courageous. I admire people who take risks to grow emotionally and in relationships. I provide individual, couples and family psychotherapy to adults, teens and children in the Atlanta area. My specialities are working with relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, self-esteem and parenting issues. My orientation is eclectic, combining psychodynamic, relational and cognitive approaches. Psychotherapy is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance your life with more abundance and contentment. I am not a passive therapist and give constructive feedback as well as much support and encouragement.
I strongly believe that asking for help with personal issues is very courageous. I admire people who take risks to grow emotionally and in relationships. I provide individual, couples and family psychotherapy to adults, teens and children in the Atlanta area. My specialities are working with relationship conflicts, depression, anxiety, self-esteem and parenting issues. My orientation is eclectic, combining psychodynamic, relational and cognitive approaches. Psychotherapy is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance your life with more abundance and contentment. I am not a passive therapist and give constructive feedback as well as much support and encouragement.
(404) 812-0405 View (404) 812-0405
Photo of Debra F McElhaney, MEd, LMFT, LPC, CIRT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra F McElhaney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, LPC, CIRT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
I have been working with and learning from individuals, couples and families for over 25 years in the areas of relationship building, communication skills, parenting skills, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
Caring for yourself and your relationships is the most important task you will ever have. Paying attention to and nourishing your emotional well being is as important as caring for your physical health. Often I encounter individuals, couples and families struggling with the excessive demands of life in the 21st century. Depression, anxiety and addictions are common in our society. Conflicts and difficulty in communication with those closest to us can often lead to feelings of isolation and despair.
I have been working with and learning from individuals, couples and families for over 25 years in the areas of relationship building, communication skills, parenting skills, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
Caring for yourself and your relationships is the most important task you will ever have. Paying attention to and nourishing your emotional well being is as important as caring for your physical health. Often I encounter individuals, couples and families struggling with the excessive demands of life in the 21st century. Depression, anxiety and addictions are common in our society. Conflicts and difficulty in communication with those closest to us can often lead to feelings of isolation and despair.
(404) 369-2002 View (404) 369-2002
Photo of Nicole Miller - The Holistic Coalition, LMFT, LMSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Holistic Coalition
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342  (Online Only)
If you are ready to establish life-changing habits to help cope with any of life’s various obstacles, your journey starts here! Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or a stressful change in your life, we strive to bring clarity and peace of mind. Our goal is to provide you with tools and skills to bring balance to any imbalanced areas in your life. We believe in order to treat a person effectively you need to consider their circumstances holistically.
If you are ready to establish life-changing habits to help cope with any of life’s various obstacles, your journey starts here! Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or a stressful change in your life, we strive to bring clarity and peace of mind. Our goal is to provide you with tools and skills to bring balance to any imbalanced areas in your life. We believe in order to treat a person effectively you need to consider their circumstances holistically.
(470) 999-6731 View (470) 999-6731
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.