Photo of Bee Well Therapy, LLC, Limited Licensed Psychologist in 49684, MI
Bee Well Therapy, LLC
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
We all feel a little lost sometimes, the stress life throws at us can be overwhelming. Anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and past trauma can feel like they are weighing you down, holding you back from living your life. We work with you to find a path through these struggles and achieve whatever goals or life changes you are aiming for. Therapy can seem intimidating, but we aim to make it a personable, positive experience.
We all feel a little lost sometimes, the stress life throws at us can be overwhelming. Anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and past trauma can feel like they are weighing you down, holding you back from living your life. We work with you to find a path through these struggles and achieve whatever goals or life changes you are aiming for. Therapy can seem intimidating, but we aim to make it a personable, positive experience.
(231) 201-3753 View (231) 201-3753
Photo of Kathryn Penfold, M.Sc, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist in 49684, MI
Kathryn Penfold, M.Sc, LLP
Limited Licensed Psychologist, BSW, MSc, LLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
My areas of treatment include relationship difficulties (couples,parent/child,family) depression, anxiety, stress and trauma as well as other clinical areas.
I employ a diverse approach to therapy based on my knowledge of psychological philosophies and techniques in conjunction with the personality and needs of each client.
My areas of treatment include relationship difficulties (couples,parent/child,family) depression, anxiety, stress and trauma as well as other clinical areas.
I employ a diverse approach to therapy based on my knowledge of psychological philosophies and techniques in conjunction with the personality and needs of each client.
(231) 322-7099 View (231) 322-7099
Photo of Julie Monan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49684, MI
Julie Monan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
I work to support my clients through a variety of topics including: relationship choices, women's issues, anxiety, social anxiety, depression and life transitions retirement, job transition, divorce, sexual identity, moving, death, and infertility. I also have of 13 years experience working with youth ages 12-18 in a variety of topics. I believe that all people at some point in their life feel stuck, and therapy is a process to help a person feel unstuck through self-discovery, self-awareness, learning, and sometimes through practicing new ways of thinking and/or new behaviors.
I work to support my clients through a variety of topics including: relationship choices, women's issues, anxiety, social anxiety, depression and life transitions retirement, job transition, divorce, sexual identity, moving, death, and infertility. I also have of 13 years experience working with youth ages 12-18 in a variety of topics. I believe that all people at some point in their life feel stuck, and therapy is a process to help a person feel unstuck through self-discovery, self-awareness, learning, and sometimes through practicing new ways of thinking and/or new behaviors.
(231) 201-3471 View (231) 201-3471
Photo of Pam DeVries Grzech, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Pam DeVries Grzech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Life can be really difficult. You’ve tried so much on your own to overcome the anxiety, grief and depression. The past comes up to haunt you just when you’ve thought you have come to terms with it. Day to day functioning can be difficult and daunting. Getting to sleep at night can be a challenge yet getting out of bed in the morning to face another day is difficult. Relationships are not going as you would like them to. Friends do not understand the pain and the daily struggles. You may be struggling with health and family issues as well.
Life can be really difficult. You’ve tried so much on your own to overcome the anxiety, grief and depression. The past comes up to haunt you just when you’ve thought you have come to terms with it. Day to day functioning can be difficult and daunting. Getting to sleep at night can be a challenge yet getting out of bed in the morning to face another day is difficult. Relationships are not going as you would like them to. Friends do not understand the pain and the daily struggles. You may be struggling with health and family issues as well.
(231) 201-3409 View (231) 201-3409
Photo of Renee Benard, Limited Licensed Psychologist in 49684, MI
Renee Benard
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
I am limited licensed psychologist who provides therapy to adults across the state of Michigan. I have over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist working with issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationships, family issues and parenting, life skills and changes, trauma, loss / grief, as well as chronic or terminal illness. With support , encouragement, and expert insight, therapy can be the place you grow, the place you heal, or the place you learn to accept you.
I am limited licensed psychologist who provides therapy to adults across the state of Michigan. I have over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist working with issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationships, family issues and parenting, life skills and changes, trauma, loss / grief, as well as chronic or terminal illness. With support , encouragement, and expert insight, therapy can be the place you grow, the place you heal, or the place you learn to accept you.
(517) 236-8556 View (517) 236-8556
Photo of Amanda Kearns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Amanda Kearns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and gender/sexuality concerns might be isolating and associated with feelings of shame and grief.
Perhaps you are at a crossroads in life and are struggling to find your path. You are a perfectionist with high achieving tendencies however, feel unable to calm your anxiety, depression, or negative self-talk. Your successes are undermined by a voice in your head stating, “I don’t think I’m good enough or I don’t have anything left to give.” You have successfully navigated many of life’s difficult decisions yet, your self-esteem and confidence are holding you back.
Navigating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and gender/sexuality concerns might be isolating and associated with feelings of shame and grief.
Perhaps you are at a crossroads in life and are struggling to find your path. You are a perfectionist with high achieving tendencies however, feel unable to calm your anxiety, depression, or negative self-talk. Your successes are undermined by a voice in your head stating, “I don’t think I’m good enough or I don’t have anything left to give.” You have successfully navigated many of life’s difficult decisions yet, your self-esteem and confidence are holding you back.
(231) 216-6519 View (231) 216-6519
Photo of Michelle M Newman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Michelle M Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
I strive to provide a calm, accepting, and genuine therapeutic environment as I assist children (ages 2+), adolescents, and teens in processing their challenges, whether that be from a traumatic experience (or chronic trauma), a break in the child/parent bond, behavioral issues, or anxiety/depression.
In today's world, parenting is challenging. In many cases, we are raising our children with little support from others. And, our children are faced with a great deal of stress and outside influence such as social media, high education standards, and reduced opportunity for success after graduation. As a parent, you want your children to be happy, self-confident, and contributing members of society.
I strive to provide a calm, accepting, and genuine therapeutic environment as I assist children (ages 2+), adolescents, and teens in processing their challenges, whether that be from a traumatic experience (or chronic trauma), a break in the child/parent bond, behavioral issues, or anxiety/depression.
In today's world, parenting is challenging. In many cases, we are raising our children with little support from others. And, our children are faced with a great deal of stress and outside influence such as social media, high education standards, and reduced opportunity for success after graduation. As a parent, you want your children to be happy, self-confident, and contributing members of society.
(231) 518-9237 View (231) 518-9237
Photo of Kate McGill, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49684, MI
Kate McGill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
These last few years of the pandemic have been very difficult for most people. I have seen a surge in anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress on marriages and family relationships, health issues, and loads of despair and grief. The pandemic has seemed to push some of these issues to the front and center for people and they can no longer be avoided or dismissed. It is a sensitive time for people to begin addressing their need for help. It can be so overwhelming and difficult to know how to begin talking about it - especially with someone who is a stranger such as myself.
These last few years of the pandemic have been very difficult for most people. I have seen a surge in anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress on marriages and family relationships, health issues, and loads of despair and grief. The pandemic has seemed to push some of these issues to the front and center for people and they can no longer be avoided or dismissed. It is a sensitive time for people to begin addressing their need for help. It can be so overwhelming and difficult to know how to begin talking about it - especially with someone who is a stranger such as myself.
(312) 313-2613 View (312) 313-2613
Photo of Douglas Adam Glick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Douglas Adam Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
A catalyst may be a person or a thing that precipitates a change. When you see the change, you can be the change! As a licensed clinical social worker I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families in the areas of trauma and resilience, anxiety, depression, as well as grief and loss. As a member of the gay community, a presenter and writer in this field, I have worked with folks that are moving toward being fully integrated in their lives. Matching what we know about our inner selves with our outer selves and celebrating ourselves within our communities, may require some assistance along the way.
A catalyst may be a person or a thing that precipitates a change. When you see the change, you can be the change! As a licensed clinical social worker I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families in the areas of trauma and resilience, anxiety, depression, as well as grief and loss. As a member of the gay community, a presenter and writer in this field, I have worked with folks that are moving toward being fully integrated in their lives. Matching what we know about our inner selves with our outer selves and celebrating ourselves within our communities, may require some assistance along the way.
(231) 518-9258 View (231) 518-9258
Photo of Carolyn Madry, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49684, MI
Carolyn Madry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety (including OCD & social anxiety), disordered eating/body image, PTSD & trauma (including abuse/assault), and loss.
A wise philosopher once said that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Small changes, even increasing self-awareness, can collect and snowball into life-changing transformations. These changes and transformations currently may be hard to imagine or fully believe, and we can still choose to bravely take that step. Whatever length your journey, I offer support along the road and a safe space for exploration, expression, insight, and transformation.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety (including OCD & social anxiety), disordered eating/body image, PTSD & trauma (including abuse/assault), and loss.
A wise philosopher once said that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Small changes, even increasing self-awareness, can collect and snowball into life-changing transformations. These changes and transformations currently may be hard to imagine or fully believe, and we can still choose to bravely take that step. Whatever length your journey, I offer support along the road and a safe space for exploration, expression, insight, and transformation.
(616) 207-1592 View (616) 207-1592
Photo of Mental Wellness Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Mental Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
From depression to happiness.
Mental Wellness Counseling is a Northern Michigan Counseling Practice. Our counselors use their passion, experience and specialties to help clients heal from traumatic experiences, address symptoms related to anxiety and depression, help strengthen relationships and help guide you through the journey of finding the best version of yourself. When you call we try to make the best fit for you based on your needs and goals. We offer face to face and virtual sessions to best meet your needs. We now have 3 locations! Two in Traverse City and a new office in Manistee!
From depression to happiness.
Mental Wellness Counseling is a Northern Michigan Counseling Practice. Our counselors use their passion, experience and specialties to help clients heal from traumatic experiences, address symptoms related to anxiety and depression, help strengthen relationships and help guide you through the journey of finding the best version of yourself. When you call we try to make the best fit for you based on your needs and goals. We offer face to face and virtual sessions to best meet your needs. We now have 3 locations! Two in Traverse City and a new office in Manistee!
(231) 714-0282 View (231) 714-0282
Photo of Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
(231) 277-2414 View (231) 277-2414
Photo of Tyler Higley, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49684, MI
Tyler Higley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
These issues vary widely, but generally include depression, anxiety, stress, marriage/relationship problems such as communication problems, parenting issues, infidelity, sexual problems and more.
I believe all people generally have the resources to help themselves, yet sometimes simply need a safe, trustworthy professional to help work through issues, identify goals, make healthy decisions and take steps necessary to live life more fully. I use an integrative approach that draws largely from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solutions-focused and cognitive behavioral theories. I recognize and respect the fact that individuals have widely varying perspectives and needs. Lastly, I am fully virtual and offer either phone or video sessions.
These issues vary widely, but generally include depression, anxiety, stress, marriage/relationship problems such as communication problems, parenting issues, infidelity, sexual problems and more.
I believe all people generally have the resources to help themselves, yet sometimes simply need a safe, trustworthy professional to help work through issues, identify goals, make healthy decisions and take steps necessary to live life more fully. I use an integrative approach that draws largely from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solutions-focused and cognitive behavioral theories. I recognize and respect the fact that individuals have widely varying perspectives and needs. Lastly, I am fully virtual and offer either phone or video sessions.
(616) 426-6566 View (616) 426-6566
Photo of Kelly Kieft, Pre-Licensed Professional in 49684, MI
Kelly Kieft
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
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Photo of Alma Pawloski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Alma Pawloski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of specialty include supporting children, youth, adults, and families in Eating Disorder treatment/ recovery, navigating interpersonal conflict, parenthood and parent child/dynamics, borderline personality disorder, and coping with anxiety or depression.
I am a fully licensed clinical social worker. You are the expert of your life, story, and experiences, and it is my job to highlight your strengths and resources to facilitate the change you desire and deserve. Every individual is unique, and our life is often shaped by our identity, experiences, beliefs, and a constantly evolving environment. My goal is to develop a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with you that you can rely on. These struggles are easier to address with therapeutic guidance by your side. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you and look forward to our first session!
My areas of specialty include supporting children, youth, adults, and families in Eating Disorder treatment/ recovery, navigating interpersonal conflict, parenthood and parent child/dynamics, borderline personality disorder, and coping with anxiety or depression.
I am a fully licensed clinical social worker. You are the expert of your life, story, and experiences, and it is my job to highlight your strengths and resources to facilitate the change you desire and deserve. Every individual is unique, and our life is often shaped by our identity, experiences, beliefs, and a constantly evolving environment. My goal is to develop a safe, non-judgmental, trusting relationship with you that you can rely on. These struggles are easier to address with therapeutic guidance by your side. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you and look forward to our first session!
(586) 400-1955 View (586) 400-1955
Photo of Amanda Haveman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Amanda Haveman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
I aim to create a safe, supportive, empathic, and validating environment for the clients I have the pleasure of working with. For over 15 years, I have provided attachment and trauma informed services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience supporting clients that struggle with a variety of issues including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, eating disorders, ADHD, and emotional regulation issues. I am honored to walk alongside you with compassion and open mindedness as you navigate the ebbs and flows of life.
I aim to create a safe, supportive, empathic, and validating environment for the clients I have the pleasure of working with. For over 15 years, I have provided attachment and trauma informed services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience supporting clients that struggle with a variety of issues including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, eating disorders, ADHD, and emotional regulation issues. I am honored to walk alongside you with compassion and open mindedness as you navigate the ebbs and flows of life.
(616) 344-5853 View (616) 344-5853
Photo of Nicholas J Comai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Nicholas J Comai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
(616) 427-1938 View (616) 427-1938
Photo of Suppression 2 Expression Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49684, MI
Suppression 2 Expression Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Many of our therapists are part of the LGBTQ+ community, and have experienced symptoms related to neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression themselves.
Accepting New Clients - We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, self esteem, LGBTQ+ related concerns, self-harm, OCD, substance use, relationship issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and more. We are best reached by email.
Many of our therapists are part of the LGBTQ+ community, and have experienced symptoms related to neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression themselves.
Accepting New Clients - We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, self esteem, LGBTQ+ related concerns, self-harm, OCD, substance use, relationship issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and more. We are best reached by email.
(616) 344-5295 View (616) 344-5295
Photo of Ryan Townes, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49684, MI
Ryan Townes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients - Morning and Afternoon appointments available. I have a focus in working with adult individuals, 18 and older, struggling with anxiety and/or seeking support with LGBTQ+ related concerns, such as sexual orientation, sexual identity, and dysphoria. If you, or someone you know, is seeking an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor who also identifies under the spectrum, or is seeking help with substance use related concerns, ADHD, racial identity, grief, or depression, please contact our office and ask for an appointment with Ryan Townes by texting 6162872283, or you can also email me.
Accepting New Clients - Morning and Afternoon appointments available. I have a focus in working with adult individuals, 18 and older, struggling with anxiety and/or seeking support with LGBTQ+ related concerns, such as sexual orientation, sexual identity, and dysphoria. If you, or someone you know, is seeking an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor who also identifies under the spectrum, or is seeking help with substance use related concerns, ADHD, racial identity, grief, or depression, please contact our office and ask for an appointment with Ryan Townes by texting 6162872283, or you can also email me.
(616) 208-5832 View (616) 208-5832
Photo of Grace Rowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49684, MI
Grace Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
As a queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent practitioner I personally understand how nerve wracking it can be to start your therapeutic journey with an unknown provider. As a trauma informed therapist I am committed to having a client-centered and collaborative approach catered to your personal growth and healing. I am passionate about working with individuals walking through anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, C-PTSD, as well as queer and gender identity issues. I work with both individuals and couples to meet client determined goals, and hope to create a productive and safe place to heal and grow.
As a queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent practitioner I personally understand how nerve wracking it can be to start your therapeutic journey with an unknown provider. As a trauma informed therapist I am committed to having a client-centered and collaborative approach catered to your personal growth and healing. I am passionate about working with individuals walking through anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, C-PTSD, as well as queer and gender identity issues. I work with both individuals and couples to meet client determined goals, and hope to create a productive and safe place to heal and grow.
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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.