Depression Therapists in 78624

Photo of Ron Rickerhauser - Ron Rickerhauser, Ph.D., LPC, PhD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ron Rickerhauser, Ph.D., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
My specialties are in the area of depression and anxiety, and I believe the CBT approach is most effective at helping us develop a better awareness of the relationship between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
I enjoy helping my clients work toward change when dealing with difficult situations. My training and education have given me an understanding of cognition, memory, and learning, which directs me to favor a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) to counseling. CBT is based on the idea that perceptual beliefs greatly influence our behavior and emotions. I believe that effective change can be facilitated through a better understanding of how we perceive our situations.
My specialties are in the area of depression and anxiety, and I believe the CBT approach is most effective at helping us develop a better awareness of the relationship between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
I enjoy helping my clients work toward change when dealing with difficult situations. My training and education have given me an understanding of cognition, memory, and learning, which directs me to favor a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) to counseling. CBT is based on the idea that perceptual beliefs greatly influence our behavior and emotions. I believe that effective change can be facilitated through a better understanding of how we perceive our situations.
(830) 224-2813 View (830) 224-2813
Photo of Patty Hoban, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patty Hoban
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I serve adults with a myriad of different needs. I have experience working with clients who have anxiety disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, insomnia, relationship issues, endured trauma, and more. Every person's journey is different, and his or her challenges are unique; therefore, I use a variety of techniques to meet each person's needs. I have received training in several different modalities, such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I specialize in individual counseling for adults.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I serve adults with a myriad of different needs. I have experience working with clients who have anxiety disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum, ADD/ADHD, insomnia, relationship issues, endured trauma, and more. Every person's journey is different, and his or her challenges are unique; therefore, I use a variety of techniques to meet each person's needs. I have received training in several different modalities, such as CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I specialize in individual counseling for adults.
(830) 587-5503 View (830) 587-5503
Photo of Brook Bodenhamer, MSW, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brook Bodenhamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
I am experienced in handling crisis situations such as suicide assessments; depression, anxiety, family conflict, coping with substance abuse addictions, coping with grief and loss, and parenting issues.
Are you looking to work hard to make some life changes to better your overall mental health? Are you tired of the same old broken record playing day after day in regard to your life struggles? I'm here to help you conquer the things you need to confront. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, substance dependency, parenting issues, relationship issues to name a few issues contact me. Are you ready to be set free from life's challenges by conquering life's struggles one minute at a time? Contact me! This is your first HUGE step to obtaining freedom from your struggles!
I am experienced in handling crisis situations such as suicide assessments; depression, anxiety, family conflict, coping with substance abuse addictions, coping with grief and loss, and parenting issues.
Are you looking to work hard to make some life changes to better your overall mental health? Are you tired of the same old broken record playing day after day in regard to your life struggles? I'm here to help you conquer the things you need to confront. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, substance dependency, parenting issues, relationship issues to name a few issues contact me. Are you ready to be set free from life's challenges by conquering life's struggles one minute at a time? Contact me! This is your first HUGE step to obtaining freedom from your struggles!
(830) 307-5802 View (830) 307-5802
Photo of Sydney Squires, MA, LPC-A
Sydney Squires
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pain arrives unasked. Often it comes and goes, but there are seasons when we feel “stuck” in suffering and unable to move forward. Do you have overwhelming anxiety or depression you can’t seem to shake? Do you have teenagers struggling with anxiety, social difficulties, and questions of identity? Through the counseling process, my intention is to help you build a heart of resiliency. One that possesses greater wholeness and confidence in your ability to navigate any and all turns of life. My aim is that you will develop skills to change the things you can, acceptance of what cannot, and develop greater hope for the future.
Pain arrives unasked. Often it comes and goes, but there are seasons when we feel “stuck” in suffering and unable to move forward. Do you have overwhelming anxiety or depression you can’t seem to shake? Do you have teenagers struggling with anxiety, social difficulties, and questions of identity? Through the counseling process, my intention is to help you build a heart of resiliency. One that possesses greater wholeness and confidence in your ability to navigate any and all turns of life. My aim is that you will develop skills to change the things you can, acceptance of what cannot, and develop greater hope for the future.
(806) 454-5169 View (806) 454-5169
Photo of Joni Chavez-Martell, LPC, Counselor
Joni Chavez-Martell
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I specialize in grief, divorce, abuse, adoption, military issues, PTSD, depression, anxiety, anger, personality disorders, and adjustments associated with life's negative experiences. I work with adults both in individual or couples' counseling. Iam trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy and in trauma focus interventions.
I specialize in grief, divorce, abuse, adoption, military issues, PTSD, depression, anxiety, anger, personality disorders, and adjustments associated with life's negative experiences. I work with adults both in individual or couples' counseling. Iam trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy and in trauma focus interventions.
(210) 871-1175 View (210) 871-1175
Photo of Dana Shepard Cardwell, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, Reiki, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Shepard Cardwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Living dementia and depression free with SET therapy" "Cyberstalked and Deepfaked", "Dragons Aren't Real".
Some people will throw rocks on your path, it depends on what you make with them, a wall or a bridge? Allow me to assist you in building a path to bliss and happiness. I can help you unlock your unique treasures whether you are a student, adult, or grandparent. I've worked with male/females from anxiety issues to suicidal ideations. I enjoy working with individuals of all walks of life who have had to face unique challenges. I, also, offer spiritual and life coaching retreats in Cozumel. I enjoy working with teens, women, young couples, military/law enforcement and LGBTQ individuals. Find my books on Amazon.
Living dementia and depression free with SET therapy" "Cyberstalked and Deepfaked", "Dragons Aren't Real".
Some people will throw rocks on your path, it depends on what you make with them, a wall or a bridge? Allow me to assist you in building a path to bliss and happiness. I can help you unlock your unique treasures whether you are a student, adult, or grandparent. I've worked with male/females from anxiety issues to suicidal ideations. I enjoy working with individuals of all walks of life who have had to face unique challenges. I, also, offer spiritual and life coaching retreats in Cozumel. I enjoy working with teens, women, young couples, military/law enforcement and LGBTQ individuals. Find my books on Amazon.
(830) 224-2702 View (830) 224-2702
Photo of Nicole Davis, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in all areas of grief and loss, depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, phase of life issues, and adjustment to life altering events; including chronic and terminal illness, divorce, separation, and workplace stressors.
Welcome! If you’re looking to make meaningful change in your life, you’re in the right place. Our starting place will always be from a place of curiosity and I will encourage you to be curious about your experiences, feelings and thoughts as we navigate healing. I take an empowering and strengths-based approach in helping my clients navigate the challenges they face in their lives. I approach each client knowing they are the expert in their own lives and partner with them to honor and celebrate their identities and lived experience. It is an honor for me to walk alongside my clients on their journey towards healing and wholeness.
I specialize in all areas of grief and loss, depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, phase of life issues, and adjustment to life altering events; including chronic and terminal illness, divorce, separation, and workplace stressors.
Welcome! If you’re looking to make meaningful change in your life, you’re in the right place. Our starting place will always be from a place of curiosity and I will encourage you to be curious about your experiences, feelings and thoughts as we navigate healing. I take an empowering and strengths-based approach in helping my clients navigate the challenges they face in their lives. I approach each client knowing they are the expert in their own lives and partner with them to honor and celebrate their identities and lived experience. It is an honor for me to walk alongside my clients on their journey towards healing and wholeness.
(830) 415-0294 View (830) 415-0294
Photo of Robyn Adkins, MSSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Adkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I provide in office, in-home or virtual counseling options for older adults and disabled individuals for a variety of needs including: Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Coping with Chronic Illness, Caregiver Stress, Family Concerns, and/or Early Stages of Dementia. Happily serving Kerr, Kendall and Gillespie Counties.
I provide in office, in-home or virtual counseling options for older adults and disabled individuals for a variety of needs including: Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Coping with Chronic Illness, Caregiver Stress, Family Concerns, and/or Early Stages of Dementia. Happily serving Kerr, Kendall and Gillespie Counties.
(830) 365-0802 View (830) 365-0802
Photo of Terry Rauschuber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Rauschuber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Learn new skills and coping strategies to deal with stress related issues such as relationships, work issues, painful divorce and learn how to manage with depression and anxiety complicating your life and interfering in work and family life.
Often we face many challenges in our lives and need an outlet to figure out the road we will take on this next journey. Dealing with depression and anxiety can add to our level of stress. I have successful experience working with adults and older adults dealing with depression and anxiety, grief and loss, stress, divorce, family and care giving issues. With my previous experience working in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals for adults and older adults I bring skills to help you develop coping strategies as you might face these challenges.
Learn new skills and coping strategies to deal with stress related issues such as relationships, work issues, painful divorce and learn how to manage with depression and anxiety complicating your life and interfering in work and family life.
Often we face many challenges in our lives and need an outlet to figure out the road we will take on this next journey. Dealing with depression and anxiety can add to our level of stress. I have successful experience working with adults and older adults dealing with depression and anxiety, grief and loss, stress, divorce, family and care giving issues. With my previous experience working in hospitals and psychiatric hospitals for adults and older adults I bring skills to help you develop coping strategies as you might face these challenges.
(830) 321-7837 View (830) 321-7837
Cynthia K Swope
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, BCN
Verified Verified
As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist I work with individuals, couples, and families. Integrating advances in applied neuroscience, I provide Neurofeedback as an alternative, and drug-free treatment for ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, traumatic brain injury, migraines, sports and academic performance, and a wide variety of other issues. I offer Neurofeedback in the course of therapy, or as a stand alone treatment. I am also certified in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), a trauma resolution therapy. My therapeutic approaches are individually designed to assist clients in reaching their specific goals.
As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist I work with individuals, couples, and families. Integrating advances in applied neuroscience, I provide Neurofeedback as an alternative, and drug-free treatment for ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, traumatic brain injury, migraines, sports and academic performance, and a wide variety of other issues. I offer Neurofeedback in the course of therapy, or as a stand alone treatment. I am also certified in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), a trauma resolution therapy. My therapeutic approaches are individually designed to assist clients in reaching their specific goals.
(830) 368-0506 View (830) 368-0506
Photo of Christopher K Stewart - Stewart Counseling & Inspire One, PLLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stewart Counseling & Inspire One, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
I specialize in childhood and adolescent disorders such as ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Depression, Anxiety, Eating, Adjustment and Developmental Disorders.
I believe the greatest resource for securing a brighter tomorrow begins today by inspiring people to fulfill their potential. Stewart Counseling is professional counseling for families, couples, children and adolescents who believe in taking action toward a flourishing life. Play therapy is generally employed with children 3 through 14 years of age and provides a way for children to express their experiences and feelings through a natural, self-guided, self-healing process. Parent support groups revitalize the art of inspiring independent, self-motivated children and adolescent's fulfillment of their potential in the world.
I specialize in childhood and adolescent disorders such as ADHD, Oppositional Defiant, Depression, Anxiety, Eating, Adjustment and Developmental Disorders.
I believe the greatest resource for securing a brighter tomorrow begins today by inspiring people to fulfill their potential. Stewart Counseling is professional counseling for families, couples, children and adolescents who believe in taking action toward a flourishing life. Play therapy is generally employed with children 3 through 14 years of age and provides a way for children to express their experiences and feelings through a natural, self-guided, self-healing process. Parent support groups revitalize the art of inspiring independent, self-motivated children and adolescent's fulfillment of their potential in the world.
(830) 730-5552 View (830) 730-5552
Photo of Joanie Harris, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanie Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
As a counselor, I come alongside people who are in a difficult place in their life. Earlier in my life I needed someone to walk with me during a hard time, and I found the counseling process to be life changing and life giving. It changed how I see and relate to life, people, God, and myself. If you are struggling with your relationships or marriage, if you battle with depression or anxiety, are lacking hope, grieving deeply, or if you just feel stuck, I would like the opportunity to walk alongside you and help you process what change and living life differently would look like for you.
As a counselor, I come alongside people who are in a difficult place in their life. Earlier in my life I needed someone to walk with me during a hard time, and I found the counseling process to be life changing and life giving. It changed how I see and relate to life, people, God, and myself. If you are struggling with your relationships or marriage, if you battle with depression or anxiety, are lacking hope, grieving deeply, or if you just feel stuck, I would like the opportunity to walk alongside you and help you process what change and living life differently would look like for you.
(830) 355-3070 View (830) 355-3070
Photo of Danett Lee Simmons, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danett Lee Simmons
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624  (Online Only)
They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, runaway behaviors, delinquency, parent-child conflicts, suicidal ideation, truancy, and more.
Throughout my career in the mental health field, I’ve worked with individuals, youth, and families to navigate challenging times and find healing. With a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and experience working in various settings such as mental health facilities, residential shelters, schools, and nonprofit organizations, and private practice. I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health and systemic issues (anxiety, stress, and depression) and child/teen parent and couple's relational issues.
They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, runaway behaviors, delinquency, parent-child conflicts, suicidal ideation, truancy, and more.
Throughout my career in the mental health field, I’ve worked with individuals, youth, and families to navigate challenging times and find healing. With a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and experience working in various settings such as mental health facilities, residential shelters, schools, and nonprofit organizations, and private practice. I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health and systemic issues (anxiety, stress, and depression) and child/teen parent and couple's relational issues.
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Photo of Rhonda Kay Fousek - Triple C EAP Equine Assisted Therapy-Rhonda Fousek, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Triple C EAP Equine Assisted Therapy-Rhonda Fousek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, ADHD, abuse, loss, grief, trauma or more? I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples & individuals, Gottman therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR, Equine Assisted Therapy, Biofeedback-HRV and Neurofeedback, Inner Healing Prayer, Trauma focused CPT & CBT.
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, ADHD, abuse, loss, grief, trauma or more? I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples & individuals, Gottman therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR, Equine Assisted Therapy, Biofeedback-HRV and Neurofeedback, Inner Healing Prayer, Trauma focused CPT & CBT.
In this crazy, non predictable world are you anxious, angry or overwhelmed? Are you more stressed, avoiding others, or are you to the point of calling it quits? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, PTSD, trauma or abuse. I believe we learn survival skills from our past that affect your present relationships, but are no longer heathy & we feel stuck. I am a Christian Therapist for over 20years. There is HOPE. God is a God of attachments and HE says it is not good to be alone. HE has given me to passion and HIS knowledge and HIS Wisdom to help you walk through this journey. You are not alone.
(830) 433-8946 View (830) 433-8946
Photo of Danny Wade, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danny Wade
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
We deal with issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, abuse and many others.
I've never seen anything as beautiful and thrilling as watching the heart of a man or woman set free from what have has held it captive for years. As I sit with you, I will be privileged to walk with you through your life story and watch freedom begin to take form. Suffering and abuse and all sorts of wounds occur, and the result is that we develop self-protective strategies that hamper connection in relationships. Whether I'm working for your marriage or yourself as an individual, my commitment to you is to try to help you identify lies and embrace truth.
We deal with issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, abuse and many others.
I've never seen anything as beautiful and thrilling as watching the heart of a man or woman set free from what have has held it captive for years. As I sit with you, I will be privileged to walk with you through your life story and watch freedom begin to take form. Suffering and abuse and all sorts of wounds occur, and the result is that we develop self-protective strategies that hamper connection in relationships. Whether I'm working for your marriage or yourself as an individual, my commitment to you is to try to help you identify lies and embrace truth.
(830) 743-9968 View (830) 743-9968
Photo of Anna Pruitt, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Pruitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
I enjoy working with adults and teens who are seeking guidance to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and every day life challenges. I use a supportive, person-centered approach coupled with cognitive/behavioral techniques to address client concerns.
I enjoy working with adults and teens who are seeking guidance to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and every day life challenges. I use a supportive, person-centered approach coupled with cognitive/behavioral techniques to address client concerns.
(830) 264-7734 View (830) 264-7734
Photo of Leandi Monroe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leandi Monroe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, TX 78624  (Online Only)
My experience also includes clients who are struggling with depression and anxiety or those who are just looking to learn some better coping skills.
Our mental health affects every part of our life. It is important to take care of our mind just like we do our body to achieve our best overall health. Some struggles may be more to do with our daily life and coping skills, where others stem from complex trauma. I also help clients struggling with Postpartum depression or anxiety. What you are feeling is valid, and you deserve a chance a process it and work on being your best self.
My experience also includes clients who are struggling with depression and anxiety or those who are just looking to learn some better coping skills.
Our mental health affects every part of our life. It is important to take care of our mind just like we do our body to achieve our best overall health. Some struggles may be more to do with our daily life and coping skills, where others stem from complex trauma. I also help clients struggling with Postpartum depression or anxiety. What you are feeling is valid, and you deserve a chance a process it and work on being your best self.
(830) 587-5928 View (830) 587-5928
Photo of Kori Joslyn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kori Joslyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I am an LPC with over 8 years of clinical experience who has worked with a multitude of clients ranging in age, generations, and experience within many diverse settings, fostering a well-rounded, practical, and comprehensive approach when it comes to working with clients. I'll meet you right where you are on your journey, provide therapeutic support, and find solutions that enable you to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. Collaboratively, we will work to cultivate new coping skills, identify personal strengths, reshape relationships, and overcome ineffective behavioral patterns in an effort to achieve your personal goals.
I am an LPC with over 8 years of clinical experience who has worked with a multitude of clients ranging in age, generations, and experience within many diverse settings, fostering a well-rounded, practical, and comprehensive approach when it comes to working with clients. I'll meet you right where you are on your journey, provide therapeutic support, and find solutions that enable you to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. Collaboratively, we will work to cultivate new coping skills, identify personal strengths, reshape relationships, and overcome ineffective behavioral patterns in an effort to achieve your personal goals.
(281) 607-4209 View (281) 607-4209
Photo of Dr. Heather Hahn, PhD, LPC-S, TIYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Heather Hahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, TIYT
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624  (Online Only)
Individuals come in for counseling for a variety of reasons. While counseling may not be able to make the situation just disappear or not hurt, I want you to know that, together, we can make this situation less scary and painful by creating a safe space for you to share your story. I will assist you to overcome obstacles and alleviate distress you are currently facing to live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Together, we can create an opportunity for growth and change within you by implementing healthy skills to practice self-care and improve positive emotions, experiences, mindfulness, and authenticity.
Individuals come in for counseling for a variety of reasons. While counseling may not be able to make the situation just disappear or not hurt, I want you to know that, together, we can make this situation less scary and painful by creating a safe space for you to share your story. I will assist you to overcome obstacles and alleviate distress you are currently facing to live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Together, we can create an opportunity for growth and change within you by implementing healthy skills to practice self-care and improve positive emotions, experiences, mindfulness, and authenticity.
(469) 416-4806 View (469) 416-4806
Photo of Nora Zaizar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nora Zaizar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, TX 78624  (Online Only)
My practice is guided by the belief that emotional healing is a journey leading to the discovery of one's innate strength and resilency. I offer to assist you in tapping into your inner resources by challenging the thinking patterns and behaviors that at times interfere with emotional well-being. My approach is strength-based and collaborative while adhering to the most evidenced-based treatment models. In our work together, I will provide you with scientifically studied tools. I practice mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT has been scientifically studied for over 50 years and demonstrated as very effective.
My practice is guided by the belief that emotional healing is a journey leading to the discovery of one's innate strength and resilency. I offer to assist you in tapping into your inner resources by challenging the thinking patterns and behaviors that at times interfere with emotional well-being. My approach is strength-based and collaborative while adhering to the most evidenced-based treatment models. In our work together, I will provide you with scientifically studied tools. I practice mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT has been scientifically studied for over 50 years and demonstrated as very effective.
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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.