Depression Therapists in 34110

Photo of Cathryn McRuer-Wong, Counselor in 34110, FL
Cathryn McRuer-Wong
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
Are you struggling with past trauma, depression, anxiety, fears, daily stressors, or unhappy family life that is holding you back from enjoying life? I will assist you to overcome what is challenging you, to develop effective skills, to improve your relationships, and your ability to make healthy choices. I will help you to develop positive behaviors, to build upon your strengths towards a strong sense of self-esteem. I'm licensed in both Florida and WA States. I provide in-office or virtual sessions.
Are you struggling with past trauma, depression, anxiety, fears, daily stressors, or unhappy family life that is holding you back from enjoying life? I will assist you to overcome what is challenging you, to develop effective skills, to improve your relationships, and your ability to make healthy choices. I will help you to develop positive behaviors, to build upon your strengths towards a strong sense of self-esteem. I'm licensed in both Florida and WA States. I provide in-office or virtual sessions.
(239) 294-8874 View (239) 294-8874
Photo of Jennifer O'Toole, Counselor in 34110, FL
Jennifer O'Toole
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience with treating individuals with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and low self-esteem.
Asking for help takes courage. Life can be overwhelming at times. There is continued pressure to feel like we are making progress and moving forward but we remain "stuck" despite will power and the best intentions to change. I believe that through therapy, self-care, and an attempt to truly accept oneself individuals can make progress and positive change within themselves and within their relationships.
I have over 20 years of experience with treating individuals with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and low self-esteem.
Asking for help takes courage. Life can be overwhelming at times. There is continued pressure to feel like we are making progress and moving forward but we remain "stuck" despite will power and the best intentions to change. I believe that through therapy, self-care, and an attempt to truly accept oneself individuals can make progress and positive change within themselves and within their relationships.
(781) 253-8506 View (781) 253-8506
Photo of Kimberly M Weisberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 34110, FL
Kimberly M Weisberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110  (Online Only)
Through a variety of therapeutic modalities, individualized to meet your needs, I can help you transform thought patterns that may be leading to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or that may have resulted from trauma, grief and loss, etc.
I am passionate about developing safe, meaningful relationships to help you explore challenging belief systems that may be getting in the way of you becoming and feeling your best self. I have over 20 years of experience working with youth and adults. My passion is helping women through varying life transitions to become overcomers of their circumstances. I enjoy helping women find a work/life balance as well as helping mothers looking to build stronger relationships with their children.
Through a variety of therapeutic modalities, individualized to meet your needs, I can help you transform thought patterns that may be leading to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or that may have resulted from trauma, grief and loss, etc.
I am passionate about developing safe, meaningful relationships to help you explore challenging belief systems that may be getting in the way of you becoming and feeling your best self. I have over 20 years of experience working with youth and adults. My passion is helping women through varying life transitions to become overcomers of their circumstances. I enjoy helping women find a work/life balance as well as helping mothers looking to build stronger relationships with their children.
(239) 347-6470 View (239) 347-6470
Photo of Madison Hosier, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in 34110, FL
Madison Hosier
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
I'm so glad you stumbled upon my profile - I'd love to work with you to take steps towards your ideal life. I work with clients struggling with eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions and burnout. I believe everyone has the potential to create the life they want while still appreciating their present experience. I will work with you on this by creating a nonjudgmental environment that creates a sense of safety and dare I say, enjoyment, in your therapeutic journey. You can expect a lot of talk about values and the use of dog and Harry Potter metaphors in your work with me!
I'm so glad you stumbled upon my profile - I'd love to work with you to take steps towards your ideal life. I work with clients struggling with eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions and burnout. I believe everyone has the potential to create the life they want while still appreciating their present experience. I will work with you on this by creating a nonjudgmental environment that creates a sense of safety and dare I say, enjoyment, in your therapeutic journey. You can expect a lot of talk about values and the use of dog and Harry Potter metaphors in your work with me!
(561) 529-9636 View (561) 529-9636
Photo of Adrian O'Donnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 34110, FL
Adrian O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110  (Online Only)
Are you feeling blocked? Have you been trying to make changes but keep getting stuck? Do you wish your career would take off? Or that you would be happier in your relationships? Maybe depression, anxiety, or an addiction is getting in your way. My speciality is working with adults and adolescents that are wanting to create a fulfilling life by breaking through the barriers that are holding them back.
Are you feeling blocked? Have you been trying to make changes but keep getting stuck? Do you wish your career would take off? Or that you would be happier in your relationships? Maybe depression, anxiety, or an addiction is getting in your way. My speciality is working with adults and adolescents that are wanting to create a fulfilling life by breaking through the barriers that are holding them back.
(323) 530-1232 View (323) 530-1232
Photo of Mary Leanes, Counselor in 34110, FL
Mary Leanes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110  (Online Only)
My specializations include depression, anxiety, grief, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, anger issues, and relationship work.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
My specializations include depression, anxiety, grief, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, anger issues, and relationship work.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, couples, individuals and groups. I draw from a number of theoretical orientations and employ interventions based on my client's specific needs. By providing an accepting and understanding environment, I can help you find solutions! If you are unable to come into the office, I also provide telemental health counseling using a HIPAA compliant platform.
(727) 359-0335 View (727) 359-0335
Photo of Dr. Cori Calkins, Psychologist in 34110, FL
Dr. Cori Calkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
We all struggle at different points in life. There are times when we need support to gain perspective and make changes in order to find peace. I help adults and teens work through a variety of concerns regarding anxiety and depression, life changes, life optimization, intimacy, relationships and past trauma. Together we work collaboratively to identify your own goals and develop skills for managing these challenges. Through a trusting therapeutic relationship, my goal is to help you to find self-understanding and identify the barriers that are standing in the way of your ability to enjoy life.
We all struggle at different points in life. There are times when we need support to gain perspective and make changes in order to find peace. I help adults and teens work through a variety of concerns regarding anxiety and depression, life changes, life optimization, intimacy, relationships and past trauma. Together we work collaboratively to identify your own goals and develop skills for managing these challenges. Through a trusting therapeutic relationship, my goal is to help you to find self-understanding and identify the barriers that are standing in the way of your ability to enjoy life.
(239) 217-4686 View (239) 217-4686
Photo of A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 34110, FL
A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHP-SW, CIMHP, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
(239) 204-5697 View (239) 204-5697
Photo of Rebecha Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 34110, FL
Rebecha Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110  (Online Only)
I mainly treat for stress related issues, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, depression, school/work problems, parenting support, perinatal and postpartum issues and family problems.
I am an LCSW with 20+ years of experience working with children, teens and adults. I follow a systems approach to therapy meaning I look at the entire system affecting a client and how to best improve their level functioning at work/school, home and in social groups. I use creative treatment modalities like art, journals and mindfulness. I am a trauma certified therapist as well.
I mainly treat for stress related issues, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, depression, school/work problems, parenting support, perinatal and postpartum issues and family problems.
I am an LCSW with 20+ years of experience working with children, teens and adults. I follow a systems approach to therapy meaning I look at the entire system affecting a client and how to best improve their level functioning at work/school, home and in social groups. I use creative treatment modalities like art, journals and mindfulness. I am a trauma certified therapist as well.
(203) 769-9344 View (203) 769-9344
Photo of Anne Pascale Elie, Counselor in 34110, FL
Anne Pascale Elie
Counselor, MBA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
My primary interest in therapy is in helping you find and be your true self. I believe that the therapeutic process should be one that reflects the unique nature and potential of every individual. From a very young age, I have known that I wanted to work in a helping profession. While I’ve dabbled in various business industries in my professional career, my focus has always been on the human aspect with a wholistic perspective. I have worked with a diverse group of clients ranging from ages 10 to 69 experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood dysregulation, OCD, ADHD and disordered eating.
My primary interest in therapy is in helping you find and be your true self. I believe that the therapeutic process should be one that reflects the unique nature and potential of every individual. From a very young age, I have known that I wanted to work in a helping profession. While I’ve dabbled in various business industries in my professional career, my focus has always been on the human aspect with a wholistic perspective. I have worked with a diverse group of clients ranging from ages 10 to 69 experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood dysregulation, OCD, ADHD and disordered eating.
(239) 356-0880 View (239) 356-0880
Photo of Cassandra A Casimir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 34110, FL
Cassandra A Casimir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and motivational interviewing with emphasis on depression, anxiety, coping skills, and self-esteem.
My name is Cassandra Casimir, LCSW of K.E.Y.S- Keep Envisioning Your Success Counseling Services. With my practice, K.E.Y.S, I want to help you Keep Envisioning Your Success as you embark on your journey towards self-love, acceptance, and healing. I fully believe that with the right tools, anyone can overcome anything. I am a non-judgmental, down-to-earth, safe place for you to share your story. I believe every story is important, and I want to hear yours. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing relational, emotional, behavioral, and social difficulties.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and motivational interviewing with emphasis on depression, anxiety, coping skills, and self-esteem.
My name is Cassandra Casimir, LCSW of K.E.Y.S- Keep Envisioning Your Success Counseling Services. With my practice, K.E.Y.S, I want to help you Keep Envisioning Your Success as you embark on your journey towards self-love, acceptance, and healing. I fully believe that with the right tools, anyone can overcome anything. I am a non-judgmental, down-to-earth, safe place for you to share your story. I believe every story is important, and I want to hear yours. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing relational, emotional, behavioral, and social difficulties.
(239) 345-3431 View (239) 345-3431
Photo of Amanda Youngsman, Counselor in 34110, FL
Amanda Youngsman
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
Specialization in ADHD, behavioral issues, teen issues, PTSD/Trauma, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, First Responder's , Community trauma, depression,anxiety, substance abuse, self esteem issues.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story I have extensive experience working with individuals affected by trauma including but not limited to sexual abuse, communal trauma and first res-ponders experiencing PTSD as well as ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, teen issues as well as women issues. My goal is facilitating the growth of my clients through self-awareness, empowerment, and strength-based techniques. I am an empathetic and experienced therapist that provides a safe and nurturing environment where you can heal and grow on your journey.
Specialization in ADHD, behavioral issues, teen issues, PTSD/Trauma, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, First Responder's , Community trauma, depression,anxiety, substance abuse, self esteem issues.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story I have extensive experience working with individuals affected by trauma including but not limited to sexual abuse, communal trauma and first res-ponders experiencing PTSD as well as ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, teen issues as well as women issues. My goal is facilitating the growth of my clients through self-awareness, empowerment, and strength-based techniques. I am an empathetic and experienced therapist that provides a safe and nurturing environment where you can heal and grow on your journey.
(239) 296-2449 View (239) 296-2449
Photo of Logan Bell, Counselor in 34110, FL
Logan Bell
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
Waitlist for new clients
Struggling with isolation, sadness, or anxiety? Want to become empowered to tackle your concerns head on? I'd love to work with you. I tend to see teenagers, young adults and adults across different cultures and orientations. My recent work has been in the LGBTQ+ population and with grief. I love working with both clients new to counseling in addition to those experienced. I aid my clients in setting realistic goals we can achieve together. My approach is tailored to your individual personality and past experiences. I enjoy helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, a trauma history, relational difficulties, and more.
Struggling with isolation, sadness, or anxiety? Want to become empowered to tackle your concerns head on? I'd love to work with you. I tend to see teenagers, young adults and adults across different cultures and orientations. My recent work has been in the LGBTQ+ population and with grief. I love working with both clients new to counseling in addition to those experienced. I aid my clients in setting realistic goals we can achieve together. My approach is tailored to your individual personality and past experiences. I enjoy helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, a trauma history, relational difficulties, and more.
(239) 351-1475 View (239) 351-1475
Photo of Melissa Sue Rosbottom Emdr Certified Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in 34110, FL
Melissa Sue Rosbottom Emdr Certified Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), a powerful combination of brain science and mindfulness, is a highly effective therapy that is used to treat trauma/PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, and many other mental health conditions.
Are you trying to heal from a traumatic or sudden loss? Maybe the loss from a suicide, a tragic accident, a sudden death of a child, spouse, parent? You might still be in shock or disbelief, the tapes of your last moments are on repeat in your mind, or feel engulfed with sadness or even anger. You want to be able to look at pictures of your loved one and smile rather than have your heart break all over again. You want to be present with your family and friends and begin to feel joy again. You want to still feel a connection to your loved one even if it's different than when he/she was alive. We work together to help you live again.
EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), a powerful combination of brain science and mindfulness, is a highly effective therapy that is used to treat trauma/PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, and many other mental health conditions.
Are you trying to heal from a traumatic or sudden loss? Maybe the loss from a suicide, a tragic accident, a sudden death of a child, spouse, parent? You might still be in shock or disbelief, the tapes of your last moments are on repeat in your mind, or feel engulfed with sadness or even anger. You want to be able to look at pictures of your loved one and smile rather than have your heart break all over again. You want to be present with your family and friends and begin to feel joy again. You want to still feel a connection to your loved one even if it's different than when he/she was alive. We work together to help you live again.
(239) 309-2945 View (239) 309-2945
Photo of Audra Boxma, Counselor in 34110, FL
Audra Boxma
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CART, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
I specialize with children, adolescents, families, and adults conducting brief, solution-focused therapy. I offer individual, group, and family therapy. I enjoy helping with with ADHD/spectrum, behavior issues, emotional dysregulation, social skills, depression, and school/learning /executive functioning issues. My therapy is brief and solution-focused. Hence, every visit you will leave with a summary of interventions that you can implement immediately. My job is to provide you with a plethora of tools for your toolbox for life. Those tools may include coping skills, social skills, anger mgmt strategies, or changing your thoughts.
I specialize with children, adolescents, families, and adults conducting brief, solution-focused therapy. I offer individual, group, and family therapy. I enjoy helping with with ADHD/spectrum, behavior issues, emotional dysregulation, social skills, depression, and school/learning /executive functioning issues. My therapy is brief and solution-focused. Hence, every visit you will leave with a summary of interventions that you can implement immediately. My job is to provide you with a plethora of tools for your toolbox for life. Those tools may include coping skills, social skills, anger mgmt strategies, or changing your thoughts.
(239) 946-6032 View (239) 946-6032
Photo of Lisa Longo - New Beginnings Counseling Center, Counselor in 34110, FL
Lisa Longo - New Beginnings Counseling Center
Counselor, MaEd, BA Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
My name is Lisa Longo. I have worked in the field of mental health and human services for over 20 years. I have a BA in psychology & MA Ed. in Counseling from Seton Hall University. Thus far in my life, I have witnessed & experienced life defining moments. When we experience or witness trauma, death of a loved one, anxiety, depression, a life transition, etc. it’s hard to figure out what to do next. When “life happens” we find ourselves experiencing emotions we may not know how to handle. I have found that these times are when we could benefit from unbiased support!
My name is Lisa Longo. I have worked in the field of mental health and human services for over 20 years. I have a BA in psychology & MA Ed. in Counseling from Seton Hall University. Thus far in my life, I have witnessed & experienced life defining moments. When we experience or witness trauma, death of a loved one, anxiety, depression, a life transition, etc. it’s hard to figure out what to do next. When “life happens” we find ourselves experiencing emotions we may not know how to handle. I have found that these times are when we could benefit from unbiased support!
(239) 307-2539 View (239) 307-2539
Photo of Cara Nixon, Psychologist in 34110, FL
Cara Nixon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
Additionally I treat depression, anxiety, eating disorder, self-injury, and personality disorder diagnoses.
I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood, and specialize in Health Psychology. I am most concerned with the psychological, behavioral, and cultural factors that contribute to health and wellness. I have been in private practice since 2014 and completed training in EMDR in 2016. Treating physical and emotional trauma is my primary focus, specifically in first responder populations.
Additionally I treat depression, anxiety, eating disorder, self-injury, and personality disorder diagnoses.
I work with individuals from adolescence through adulthood, and specialize in Health Psychology. I am most concerned with the psychological, behavioral, and cultural factors that contribute to health and wellness. I have been in private practice since 2014 and completed training in EMDR in 2016. Treating physical and emotional trauma is my primary focus, specifically in first responder populations.
(305) 985-1114 View (305) 985-1114
Photo of Mary Ann Whalen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 34110, FL
Mary Ann Whalen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
Communication problems, anxiety and depression are a focus.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
Communication problems, anxiety and depression are a focus.
The stories we construct about life often get in the way of feeling fully alive. We create them to make sense of the randomness of our experiences with the goal of feeling more secure. Unfortunately, they can limit us; our self knowledge, the development of our connections with others and experiencing success. Looking for patterns in language and behavior helps to uncover the underlying stories that contribute to unhappiness and stress. Knowing that we are all trying our best to find our way through life helps us to work as a team to move forward.
(707) 236-8794 View (707) 236-8794
Photo of Eva Smidova, Marriage & Family Therapist in 34110, FL
Eva Smidova
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhDr, LMFT, LGBTQA+, CTCT, PhD
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
Dear client, YOU ARE MY SPECIALTY! Let me help you get the most out of your life, relationships, and career. I am a skilled psychotherapist, counselor, certified transgender care therapist, and hypnotherapist with an international experience. My areas of emphasis are: psychotherapy with couples, families, individuals, children and teens, LGB and Transgender care, relational concerns, infidelity, sexual therapy, parenting challenges, personal growth, self-esteem and empowerment, mind and body connection work, transitions of life/career/family, anxiety and depression, death, loss and grief, trauma. Successful therapy is about you feeling better, changed, balanced, satisfied, challenged, glowing YOU!
Dear client, YOU ARE MY SPECIALTY! Let me help you get the most out of your life, relationships, and career. I am a skilled psychotherapist, counselor, certified transgender care therapist, and hypnotherapist with an international experience. My areas of emphasis are: psychotherapy with couples, families, individuals, children and teens, LGB and Transgender care, relational concerns, infidelity, sexual therapy, parenting challenges, personal growth, self-esteem and empowerment, mind and body connection work, transitions of life/career/family, anxiety and depression, death, loss and grief, trauma. Successful therapy is about you feeling better, changed, balanced, satisfied, challenged, glowing YOU!
(239) 324-9785 View (239) 324-9785
Photo of Molli E. Mercer, Counselor in 34110, FL
Molli E. Mercer
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34110
I earned my master's degree in Couples and Family Counseling and my doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. Whether you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, a couple experiencing a loss of intimacy, or a child adjusting to life transitions, I can help you develop the best solutions to your problems. I specialize in building healthy relationships, healthy expressions of sexuality and sex positivity, play therapy, and utilize a solution-focused approach. I am passionate about working with people from all walks of life to help them move toward the healthiest versions of themselves.
I earned my master's degree in Couples and Family Counseling and my doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. Whether you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, a couple experiencing a loss of intimacy, or a child adjusting to life transitions, I can help you develop the best solutions to your problems. I specialize in building healthy relationships, healthy expressions of sexuality and sex positivity, play therapy, and utilize a solution-focused approach. I am passionate about working with people from all walks of life to help them move toward the healthiest versions of themselves.
(239) 572-0974 View (239) 572-0974
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.