Photo of Emma Low, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53217, WI
Emma Low
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Emma is a Licensed professional Counselor with over 23 years of clinical experience working in residential and outpatient settings in England and the United States. Emma works with children, teenagers and adults experiencing distress that is negatively impacting their emotional well-being, close relationships, and social, school or work functioning. Her specialty areas include but are not limited to individuals with long standing difficulties associated with past traumatic events, depression, OCD and other anxiety related problems. Emma also works with couples and families to improve communication and manage conflict.
Emma is a Licensed professional Counselor with over 23 years of clinical experience working in residential and outpatient settings in England and the United States. Emma works with children, teenagers and adults experiencing distress that is negatively impacting their emotional well-being, close relationships, and social, school or work functioning. Her specialty areas include but are not limited to individuals with long standing difficulties associated with past traumatic events, depression, OCD and other anxiety related problems. Emma also works with couples and families to improve communication and manage conflict.
(414) 626-1617 View (414) 626-1617
Photo of Gina Yauck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Gina Yauck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Gina Yauck is a Master's prepared Psychotherapist who received her degree from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a relationship therapist who works with adults, couples and families. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and self esteem issues. Gina enjoys working with women's issues throughout the lifespan including career counseling, dating and marriage, parenting, menopause and retirement.
Gina Yauck is a Master's prepared Psychotherapist who received her degree from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a relationship therapist who works with adults, couples and families. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and self esteem issues. Gina enjoys working with women's issues throughout the lifespan including career counseling, dating and marriage, parenting, menopause and retirement.
(414) 348-5626 View (414) 348-5626
Photo of Janice Bourke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Janice Bourke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Jan is a licensed psychotherapist who has been practicing in the Milwaukee area for over 25 years in both in-patient and outpatient settings. While working with some adolescents, she primarily sees adults experiencing such difficulties as depression, anxiety, addictions, co-dependency, verbal abuse, grief and workplace stresses. She deals with relationship issues both with individuals and couples. A specialty area of Jan's is integrating spirituality into treatment to promote well-being and help alleviate symptoms.
Jan is a licensed psychotherapist who has been practicing in the Milwaukee area for over 25 years in both in-patient and outpatient settings. While working with some adolescents, she primarily sees adults experiencing such difficulties as depression, anxiety, addictions, co-dependency, verbal abuse, grief and workplace stresses. She deals with relationship issues both with individuals and couples. A specialty area of Jan's is integrating spirituality into treatment to promote well-being and help alleviate symptoms.
(414) 441-6639 View (414) 441-6639
Photo of Lisa Schneider, Counselor in 53217, WI
Lisa Schneider
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Schneider has worked extensively with people of all ages with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression management and life skills.
Lisa Schneider is a 2012 graduate of Mount Mary University earning a Master's of Science degree in Art Therapy. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin as well as a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Ms. Schneider specializes in working with children and adolescents having previous experience at a residential school for special needs children/adolescents and acute care.
Schneider has worked extensively with people of all ages with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression management and life skills.
Lisa Schneider is a 2012 graduate of Mount Mary University earning a Master's of Science degree in Art Therapy. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin as well as a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Ms. Schneider specializes in working with children and adolescents having previous experience at a residential school for special needs children/adolescents and acute care.
(414) 441-3652 View (414) 441-3652
Photo of Thomas Galten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Thomas Galten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
He is accustomed to addressing all concerns which people typically bring to counseling, including depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol abuse, couples’ issues, parent/child concerns and bereavement.
Thomas Galten is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and clinical substance abuse counselor (CSAC) working with individual adults, couples and families with children. He has been practicing since 1994, when he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a master’s degree in social work (MSW). Tom’s therapy style is relaxed and reflective and he seeks always to create and encourage an atmosphere of trust, good will and rapport with those who come to him for counseling. He is client-centered and strengths-based and believes in the client’s capacity to achieve higher levels of empowerment, freedom, happiness.
He is accustomed to addressing all concerns which people typically bring to counseling, including depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol abuse, couples’ issues, parent/child concerns and bereavement.
Thomas Galten is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and clinical substance abuse counselor (CSAC) working with individual adults, couples and families with children. He has been practicing since 1994, when he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a master’s degree in social work (MSW). Tom’s therapy style is relaxed and reflective and he seeks always to create and encourage an atmosphere of trust, good will and rapport with those who come to him for counseling. He is client-centered and strengths-based and believes in the client’s capacity to achieve higher levels of empowerment, freedom, happiness.
(414) 420-0523 View (414) 420-0523
Photo of Paul M Smerz, Psychologist in 53217, WI
Paul M Smerz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217
I work with adults and adolescents presenting with a variety of mental health and relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, health problems, and other crises that may accompany life.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
I work with adults and adolescents presenting with a variety of mental health and relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, health problems, and other crises that may accompany life.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
(414) 905-3081 x470 View (414) 905-3081 x470
Photo of Anne Repaci, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53217, WI
Anne Repaci
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
I am a Master's prepared psychotherapist with a Rehabilitation Psychology Degree from UW - Madison. I have widespread experience in providing therapy in the areas of adjustment disorders in individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities - with extensive experience in brain injury, as well as, depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, addiction issues, relational issues, and health and wellbeing.
I am a Master's prepared psychotherapist with a Rehabilitation Psychology Degree from UW - Madison. I have widespread experience in providing therapy in the areas of adjustment disorders in individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities - with extensive experience in brain injury, as well as, depression, anxiety, stress management, pain management, addiction issues, relational issues, and health and wellbeing.
(414) 441-6477 View (414) 441-6477
Photo of Andrea Sandora, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Andrea Sandora
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
I also specialize in Brainspotting, a powerful intervention that addresses emotional/body pain, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am a certified Licensed Clinical Therapist with more than 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in both one-on-one and group settings. As a compassionate therapist, I use a personalized approach to establish your treatment plan so you can attain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. As every person and situation is unique, my mission is to help you use your own inner strengths to define your journey, and reach your goals.
I also specialize in Brainspotting, a powerful intervention that addresses emotional/body pain, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am a certified Licensed Clinical Therapist with more than 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in both one-on-one and group settings. As a compassionate therapist, I use a personalized approach to establish your treatment plan so you can attain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. As every person and situation is unique, my mission is to help you use your own inner strengths to define your journey, and reach your goals.
(414) 895-5272 View (414) 895-5272
Photo of Melanie Wasserman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Melanie Wasserman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Melanie's areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Divorce and separation, parenting challenges, grief and loss issues, adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, and relationship issues.
Melanie Wasserman provides psychotherapy to individuals 17 and older. She received her Master in Social Work degree from UW - Milwaukee, where her training focused on mental health, trauma counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Melanie has practiced psychotherapy since 1999 and her therapeutic approach to treatment includes Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Emotional Focused and Insight Oriented Therapy. Additionally, Melanie is skilled in group therapy and facilitating psycho-educational and bereavement groups.
Melanie's areas of expertise include but are not limited to: Divorce and separation, parenting challenges, grief and loss issues, adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, women's issues, and relationship issues.
Melanie Wasserman provides psychotherapy to individuals 17 and older. She received her Master in Social Work degree from UW - Milwaukee, where her training focused on mental health, trauma counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Melanie has practiced psychotherapy since 1999 and her therapeutic approach to treatment includes Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Emotional Focused and Insight Oriented Therapy. Additionally, Melanie is skilled in group therapy and facilitating psycho-educational and bereavement groups.
(414) 404-7967 View (414) 404-7967
Photo of Carin A Pittleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Carin A Pittleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Are you feeling stressed out and overwhelmed? Seeing a therapist can be scary and takes courage. I use a Strength Based approach to deal with issues including anxiety, depression, health related issues, grief and loss, relationships, life transitions and parenting. By listening to you, reflecting and sharing information we will explore your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors in a gentle, safe and understanding environment. I am passionate about helping you think "outside the box" with regard to your personal development to regain confidence and hope.
Are you feeling stressed out and overwhelmed? Seeing a therapist can be scary and takes courage. I use a Strength Based approach to deal with issues including anxiety, depression, health related issues, grief and loss, relationships, life transitions and parenting. By listening to you, reflecting and sharing information we will explore your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors in a gentle, safe and understanding environment. I am passionate about helping you think "outside the box" with regard to your personal development to regain confidence and hope.
(262) 429-9629 View (262) 429-9629
Photo of Tracie J. Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53217, WI
Tracie J. Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
Clients have come to see me for counseling with a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, PTSD, and ADHD. My treatment approach is to help individuals reach their goals by using evidence-based methods and techniques. That means, from a client-centered perspective, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), desensitization, mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR), and positive psychology when it is necessary and appropriate to suite the individual's needs.
Clients have come to see me for counseling with a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, PTSD, and ADHD. My treatment approach is to help individuals reach their goals by using evidence-based methods and techniques. That means, from a client-centered perspective, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), desensitization, mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR), and positive psychology when it is necessary and appropriate to suite the individual's needs.
(414) 269-3546 View (414) 269-3546
Photo of Amy Perkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53217, WI
Amy Perkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Amy is a licensed therapist who provides individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, which may include psychoeducation and supportive work with families and guardians. Her experience includes working with ADHD, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, and autism spectrum disorders. Amy utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to empower clients to identify their strengths and help them utilize these strengths to succeed in life. She also helps clients learn the impact their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have on their overall well-being.
Amy is a licensed therapist who provides individual therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, which may include psychoeducation and supportive work with families and guardians. Her experience includes working with ADHD, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, and autism spectrum disorders. Amy utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to empower clients to identify their strengths and help them utilize these strengths to succeed in life. She also helps clients learn the impact their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have on their overall well-being.
(414) 800-9835 View (414) 800-9835
Photo of Jeffrey Nerone, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53217, WI
Jeffrey Nerone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
Sessions may address needs related to anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, men’s issues, intimacy, effective communication, self-esteem/self-worth.
Jeff Nerone, MA, LPC Counseling Philosophy: Jeff’s approach to counseling centers on guiding clients to a deeper understanding of self by helping them identify and navigate barriers to healing. Jeff provides a safe, supportive, environment in which clients engage in the work of building self-trust, purpose, and a renewed sense of empowerment over their life choices. Educational Background: After graduating cum laude from Marquette University with a double major in Psychology and Professional Communications, Jeff earned his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology through Cardinal Stritch University.
Sessions may address needs related to anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, men’s issues, intimacy, effective communication, self-esteem/self-worth.
Jeff Nerone, MA, LPC Counseling Philosophy: Jeff’s approach to counseling centers on guiding clients to a deeper understanding of self by helping them identify and navigate barriers to healing. Jeff provides a safe, supportive, environment in which clients engage in the work of building self-trust, purpose, and a renewed sense of empowerment over their life choices. Educational Background: After graduating cum laude from Marquette University with a double major in Psychology and Professional Communications, Jeff earned his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology through Cardinal Stritch University.
(414) 888-4020 View (414) 888-4020
Photo of Catherine Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Catherine Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53217
My experience has allowed me to work with people who cope with mood disorders, depression, substance use disorders and similar addictions such as gambling or spending, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and OCD/anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, hair pulling or skin picking.
I am a licensed mental health & substance abuse counselor working with people ages 18+. I appreciate the diversity of human beings and welcome all individuals; I do my best to be an ally. I have worked in the behavioral health/substance use field since 1990, obtaining my Masters in Social Work in 2017. I've worked in a variety of areas: direct care, admissions, completing insurance reviews and advocating for care, so I can offer a unique perspective on the continuum of care and the in's and out's of getting the treatment that is best for you.
My experience has allowed me to work with people who cope with mood disorders, depression, substance use disorders and similar addictions such as gambling or spending, borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and OCD/anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety, hair pulling or skin picking.
I am a licensed mental health & substance abuse counselor working with people ages 18+. I appreciate the diversity of human beings and welcome all individuals; I do my best to be an ally. I have worked in the behavioral health/substance use field since 1990, obtaining my Masters in Social Work in 2017. I've worked in a variety of areas: direct care, admissions, completing insurance reviews and advocating for care, so I can offer a unique perspective on the continuum of care and the in's and out's of getting the treatment that is best for you.
(414) 348-0656 View (414) 348-0656
Photo of Cathy Ryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 53217, WI
Cathy Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Areas of Expertise: Marital & relationship counseling, discernment counseling (offers couples a way to look at their options before making a decision about divorce), parenting concerns, family counseling, divorce adjustment, individual therapy for depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, dependence related issues, and recovery from abuse and trauma. I integrate brainspotting (eye positioning) with traditional psychotherapy approaches to promote a more effective healing from a variety of psychological problems.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Areas of Expertise: Marital & relationship counseling, discernment counseling (offers couples a way to look at their options before making a decision about divorce), parenting concerns, family counseling, divorce adjustment, individual therapy for depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, dependence related issues, and recovery from abuse and trauma. I integrate brainspotting (eye positioning) with traditional psychotherapy approaches to promote a more effective healing from a variety of psychological problems.
(262) 588-4243 View (262) 588-4243
Photo of Jennifer Robers Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53217, WI
Jennifer Robers Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Jennifer Robers Miller, M.S. LPC is a licensed professional counselor specializing in infant and toddler mental health, trauma-informed care, and foster/adoption/attachment issues in families. She additionally treats children who have anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, DMDD, insomnia, eating issues, school/daycare issues, cognitive impairments, developmental delays, adjustment disorders, family change and grief and loss issues. Jennifer obtained her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Loyola College in Maryland in 2001.
Jennifer Robers Miller, M.S. LPC is a licensed professional counselor specializing in infant and toddler mental health, trauma-informed care, and foster/adoption/attachment issues in families. She additionally treats children who have anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, DMDD, insomnia, eating issues, school/daycare issues, cognitive impairments, developmental delays, adjustment disorders, family change and grief and loss issues. Jennifer obtained her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Loyola College in Maryland in 2001.
(262) 592-5205 View (262) 592-5205
Photo of Christine Wielgos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Christine Wielgos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217  (Online Only)
Christine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides psychotherapy to individuals of all ages, including children. Christine specializes in treating anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, life transitions, trauma, grief and loss, substance dependence, self-esteem concerns, LGBTQ+, family/relationship conflict, and parenting. Her approach is non-judgmental, client-centered, and strengths-based to create a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship that empowers the client to make positive, long-term changes and promotes healthy personal growth.
Christine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides psychotherapy to individuals of all ages, including children. Christine specializes in treating anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, life transitions, trauma, grief and loss, substance dependence, self-esteem concerns, LGBTQ+, family/relationship conflict, and parenting. Her approach is non-judgmental, client-centered, and strengths-based to create a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship that empowers the client to make positive, long-term changes and promotes healthy personal growth.
(262) 588-4120 View (262) 588-4120
Ashley Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Ashley is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years experience helping children, adolescents, and families experiencing crisis, ADHD, anger management, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, selfharm, and suicidal ideation. She utilizes cognitivebehavior therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing to assist clients in understanding their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions while teaching new skills so clients can be empowered to make changes in their lives.
Ashley is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years experience helping children, adolescents, and families experiencing crisis, ADHD, anger management, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, selfharm, and suicidal ideation. She utilizes cognitivebehavior therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing to assist clients in understanding their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions while teaching new skills so clients can be empowered to make changes in their lives.
(262) 393-4339 View (262) 393-4339
Photo of Megan Ambros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 53217, WI
Megan Ambros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
Megan Ambros is a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing since 2017. She completed her master's degree at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Megan specializes in working with women who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, and challenging seasons of life. She is trained in evidence-based practices including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. Mindfulness and self-compassion are foundational to her approach.
Megan Ambros is a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing since 2017. She completed her master's degree at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Megan specializes in working with women who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, and challenging seasons of life. She is trained in evidence-based practices including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. Mindfulness and self-compassion are foundational to her approach.
(262) 444-0506 View (262) 444-0506
Photo of Veronica Pyatt, Licensed Professional Counselor in 53217, WI
Veronica Pyatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
She has experience working with trauma, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, parenting issues, behavioral issues, school avoidance, depression, self-harm, and mood disorders.
Veronica Pyatt is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than five years of experience. Prior to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor, she worked in the field of education. She was licensed in the state of Wisconsin in elementary education with a focus in special education. It was her experience, working with children in the academic setting, that caused her to pursue a career in counseling. She earned a trauma certification while completing the master's program at Mount Mary University. Veronica works with children aged 2 and older, adolescents, adults, and families.
She has experience working with trauma, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, parenting issues, behavioral issues, school avoidance, depression, self-harm, and mood disorders.
Veronica Pyatt is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than five years of experience. Prior to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor, she worked in the field of education. She was licensed in the state of Wisconsin in elementary education with a focus in special education. It was her experience, working with children in the academic setting, that caused her to pursue a career in counseling. She earned a trauma certification while completing the master's program at Mount Mary University. Veronica works with children aged 2 and older, adolescents, adults, and families.
(262) 588-4304 View (262) 588-4304
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.