Depression Therapists in 78703

Photo of Deborah Dheva Liebman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Dheva Liebman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
When our early experiences with our caregivers and families are fraught with persistent conflict, misattunement, ruptures in trust, or emotional abuse, we react to these distressing encounters by developing beliefs, feelings and behaviors to help us maintain safety within these relationships, and minimize mental and emotional pain. When these responses occur for an extended period of time, they become habitual in nature and often manifest as anxiety, depression, low self-worth and diminished self-confidence. We may also find ourselves feeling stuck, hopeless, confused and lacking a sense of purpose or deeper meaning in our lives.
When our early experiences with our caregivers and families are fraught with persistent conflict, misattunement, ruptures in trust, or emotional abuse, we react to these distressing encounters by developing beliefs, feelings and behaviors to help us maintain safety within these relationships, and minimize mental and emotional pain. When these responses occur for an extended period of time, they become habitual in nature and often manifest as anxiety, depression, low self-worth and diminished self-confidence. We may also find ourselves feeling stuck, hopeless, confused and lacking a sense of purpose or deeper meaning in our lives.
(512) 559-8990 View (512) 559-8990
Photo of Holland Miller, PsyD, Psychologist
Holland Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Specialties: Tools for dealing with strong emotions ( depression, anxiety, anger, guilt, despair, fear); Skills for building better relationships and friendships; Tools for building a positive self-image and boosting self-esteem; Improving self-awareness and connection with your inner world.
NOW accepting NEW clients! I love working with those who want to boost mood & energy, overcome anxiety, manage stress and life changes, and improve relationships with friends, family, and oneself. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, difficult life changes, relationship problems, lack of balance, high stress, or problems with self-esteem, we will work to collaboratively figure out what you need in order to cope better with stress, enjoy life, stop focusing on your distress, relate better to the people who are important to you, and make healthy choices.
Specialties: Tools for dealing with strong emotions ( depression, anxiety, anger, guilt, despair, fear); Skills for building better relationships and friendships; Tools for building a positive self-image and boosting self-esteem; Improving self-awareness and connection with your inner world.
NOW accepting NEW clients! I love working with those who want to boost mood & energy, overcome anxiety, manage stress and life changes, and improve relationships with friends, family, and oneself. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, difficult life changes, relationship problems, lack of balance, high stress, or problems with self-esteem, we will work to collaboratively figure out what you need in order to cope better with stress, enjoy life, stop focusing on your distress, relate better to the people who are important to you, and make healthy choices.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Asli Baykal, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asli Baykal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst experienced in working with older adolescents and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and struggles with family dynamics, mood disorders, substance abuse, college and life transition anxieties - and those helping family members with these problems. My style is warm, engaged and collaborative. While I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, my orientation is primarily psychodynamic, which means I start with the assumption that the sources of distress can be complex and often outside our immediate awareness.
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst experienced in working with older adolescents and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and struggles with family dynamics, mood disorders, substance abuse, college and life transition anxieties - and those helping family members with these problems. My style is warm, engaged and collaborative. While I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, my orientation is primarily psychodynamic, which means I start with the assumption that the sources of distress can be complex and often outside our immediate awareness.
(617) 580-5291 View (617) 580-5291
Photo of Jen Kahn, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Kahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma/PTSD and relationships.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am here to help you discover your path and help guide you where you want to go in life. I believe in the power of awareness and choice. We all have the ability to choose our path but we may need some guidance, understanding, and support along the way.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Trauma/PTSD and relationships.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am here to help you discover your path and help guide you where you want to go in life. I believe in the power of awareness and choice. We all have the ability to choose our path but we may need some guidance, understanding, and support along the way.
(512) 675-6897 View (512) 675-6897
Photo of Jennifer Gonzalez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
She also see’s individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self esteem, and relationship conflict.
Jennifer is an evidence based therapist but also takes a person centered approach allowing clients to feel they have autonomy in their treatment. She works to build a friendly, non judgmental, and open space to allow clients to feel comfortable when discussing personal issues. She aims to empower her clients by providing psychoeducation and giving patients the working tools to improve their lives. Jennifer specializes in trauma focused treatment and has worked with the military, veterans, and their families for the last 5 years. She is certified or trained in the following treatments CBT, CPT, and EMDR therapy.
She also see’s individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, self esteem, and relationship conflict.
Jennifer is an evidence based therapist but also takes a person centered approach allowing clients to feel they have autonomy in their treatment. She works to build a friendly, non judgmental, and open space to allow clients to feel comfortable when discussing personal issues. She aims to empower her clients by providing psychoeducation and giving patients the working tools to improve their lives. Jennifer specializes in trauma focused treatment and has worked with the military, veterans, and their families for the last 5 years. She is certified or trained in the following treatments CBT, CPT, and EMDR therapy.
(737) 510-4930 View (737) 510-4930
Photo of Srividhya 'srivi' Subramanian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Srividhya 'srivi' Subramanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
It would be my honor to work with individuals on anxiety, depression and trauma issues.
You made it here! No matter what happened today, you decided not to be taken down by it! You took the FIRST step in your journey of wellbeing. I welcome you with an open mind and immense curiosity with absolutely no judgments. I strive towards creating the safety that you look forward to in this very moment to express your thoughts and feelings, with a sense of warmth and comfort. As Maya Angelou says, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style". I look forward to being that empathic and compassionate person for your therapeutic needs!
It would be my honor to work with individuals on anxiety, depression and trauma issues.
You made it here! No matter what happened today, you decided not to be taken down by it! You took the FIRST step in your journey of wellbeing. I welcome you with an open mind and immense curiosity with absolutely no judgments. I strive towards creating the safety that you look forward to in this very moment to express your thoughts and feelings, with a sense of warmth and comfort. As Maya Angelou says, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style". I look forward to being that empathic and compassionate person for your therapeutic needs!
(512) 982-9472 View (512) 982-9472
Photo of Deep Eddy Psychotherapy - Deep Eddy Psychotherapy, PhD, CGP, LCSW, LPC, PsyD, Psychologist
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, LCSW, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Trauma, and more.
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Trauma, and more.
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
(512) 861-8779 View (512) 861-8779
Photo of Ana El-Behadli, PhD, Psychologist
Ana El-Behadli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Dr. El-Behadli is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in evidence-based, family-centered care. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, suicidality, self-harm, and chronic illness or pain. She also works directly with parents in support of their children with these conditions. Dr. El-Behadli is experienced in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and family- and parent-based treatments, such as Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
Dr. El-Behadli is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in evidence-based, family-centered care. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression, suicidality, self-harm, and chronic illness or pain. She also works directly with parents in support of their children with these conditions. Dr. El-Behadli is experienced in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and family- and parent-based treatments, such as Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
(737) 727-3048 View (737) 727-3048
Photo of Bailey Van Cleave, MA, LPC-A
Bailey Van Cleave
LPC-Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
I work primarily with young adults and find myself connecting strongly to those who are extra hard on themselves. This may include individuals grappling with challenges such as feelings of depression and/or anxiety, tendencies towards people-pleasing and/or perfectionism, and self-critical beliefs. I also work with a select number of teens. Additionally, many of my client's are seeking a better understanding of why they feel the way they do and who are searching for further insight into who they are in this often chaotic world.
I work primarily with young adults and find myself connecting strongly to those who are extra hard on themselves. This may include individuals grappling with challenges such as feelings of depression and/or anxiety, tendencies towards people-pleasing and/or perfectionism, and self-critical beliefs. I also work with a select number of teens. Additionally, many of my client's are seeking a better understanding of why they feel the way they do and who are searching for further insight into who they are in this often chaotic world.
(512) 201-2858 View (512) 201-2858
Photo of Albertina Law, MA, NCC, NARM®
Albertina Law
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, NARM®
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Anxiety, Conflict, Depression, Frustration, Irritability. You’re exhausted. You want something very different from what you’ve been experiencing. Maybe you have the exact words for it, or maybe your feelings are too overwhelming for words. Maybe there’s just numbness. Your curiosity, and mostly your desire for change, has brought you here. I’m entirely prepared to meet you. I would be honored to work together. There’s room here for what you want. You won’t have to do this alone.
Anxiety, Conflict, Depression, Frustration, Irritability. You’re exhausted. You want something very different from what you’ve been experiencing. Maybe you have the exact words for it, or maybe your feelings are too overwhelming for words. Maybe there’s just numbness. Your curiosity, and mostly your desire for change, has brought you here. I’m entirely prepared to meet you. I would be honored to work together. There’s room here for what you want. You won’t have to do this alone.
(512) 764-3097 View (512) 764-3097
Photo of Patti Kay McCullar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patti Kay McCullar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I work with individuals and families who are struggling with difficult issues such as depression, divorce, or mental illness. Conflicts, within and between people, lie at the core of emotional distress. Divorce, depression, substance abuse make setting healthy boundaries difficult, and before the individual knows it, he or she is living in a state of compromise. I focus on people who are wanting to get out of a compromised state and build healthy relationships that protect personal space and are conducive to reciprocity.
I work with individuals and families who are struggling with difficult issues such as depression, divorce, or mental illness. Conflicts, within and between people, lie at the core of emotional distress. Divorce, depression, substance abuse make setting healthy boundaries difficult, and before the individual knows it, he or she is living in a state of compromise. I focus on people who are wanting to get out of a compromised state and build healthy relationships that protect personal space and are conducive to reciprocity.
(512) 540-5906 View (512) 540-5906
Photo of Penni Patterson - Penni Patterson, LCSW, MBA, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penni Patterson, LCSW, MBA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
My expertise is anxiety, depression, child and adolescent issues, failure to launch, and relationship issues.
As a therapist with 25 years of experience and extensive training, I understand the complexities of suffering and the healing process. Professional peers have described me as "exceptionally attuned," "warmly down to earth" and "to the point." I offer a compassionate, accepting, and wise presence to the therapy relationship. Because this relationship is paramount to your therapy experience, I offer a free initial consultation so that we can meet. I believe that human beings have an amazing ability to gain insight and create change in their lives and am dedicated to this process for clients, myself and all beings.
My expertise is anxiety, depression, child and adolescent issues, failure to launch, and relationship issues.
As a therapist with 25 years of experience and extensive training, I understand the complexities of suffering and the healing process. Professional peers have described me as "exceptionally attuned," "warmly down to earth" and "to the point." I offer a compassionate, accepting, and wise presence to the therapy relationship. Because this relationship is paramount to your therapy experience, I offer a free initial consultation so that we can meet. I believe that human beings have an amazing ability to gain insight and create change in their lives and am dedicated to this process for clients, myself and all beings.
(512) 960-3245 View (512) 960-3245
Photo of Diana Verdin (Bilingual), MS, LPA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Verdin (Bilingual)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
My areas of work include loss and grief, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, parenting, and conflict resolution.
Congratulations on taking the first step in starting therapy. For over 20 years, I've enjoyed collaborating with adults, teens and their families to resolve conflicts, and foster more meaningful relationships. Anxiety and depression can cloud our ability to see ourselves and others in a positive light. Together we can challenge negative thinking that blocks goal attainment, regulate overwhelming emotions, and calm the body. In a safe environment we can explore new ways of thinking and being. I look forward to joining you on your journey
My areas of work include loss and grief, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, parenting, and conflict resolution.
Congratulations on taking the first step in starting therapy. For over 20 years, I've enjoyed collaborating with adults, teens and their families to resolve conflicts, and foster more meaningful relationships. Anxiety and depression can cloud our ability to see ourselves and others in a positive light. Together we can challenge negative thinking that blocks goal attainment, regulate overwhelming emotions, and calm the body. In a safe environment we can explore new ways of thinking and being. I look forward to joining you on your journey
(512) 865-5109 View (512) 865-5109
Photo of Joanne Terry Swanson, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Terry Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Waitlist for new clients
Are you navigating a difficult life transition, struggling with depression and anxiety, experiencing grief over a significant loss? Do you sometimes experience overwhelming thoughts and emotions that seem to get in the way? Are you feeling disconnected within significant relationships? Do you wish to experience more joy and gain confidence in your ability to face the often-painful challenges that life as a human being can bring? Therapy can provide a quiet, collaborative space where you will gain insight, clarify your unique goals and values, and discover new ways to cope that foster healing yourself and your relationships.
Are you navigating a difficult life transition, struggling with depression and anxiety, experiencing grief over a significant loss? Do you sometimes experience overwhelming thoughts and emotions that seem to get in the way? Are you feeling disconnected within significant relationships? Do you wish to experience more joy and gain confidence in your ability to face the often-painful challenges that life as a human being can bring? Therapy can provide a quiet, collaborative space where you will gain insight, clarify your unique goals and values, and discover new ways to cope that foster healing yourself and your relationships.
(512) 886-8460 View (512) 886-8460
Photo of Mia Roldan - Mia Roldan Austin Therapy PLLC, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mia Roldan Austin Therapy PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
My specialties are clients with ADHD and Executive Functioning, Anxiety, Depression, Disordered Eating Behaviors and Thoughts, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, Bereavement, Self-harm, Social Anxiety and Trauma.
I believe at the core of every individual are the potential building blocks for resiliency. Therapy is a unique opportunity to be listened to and heard in a non-judgmental and safe environment. It is a valuable experience where you will gain insights and learn strategies to better understand your feelings, your strengths, your triggers and your goals. I am an advocate for an individual's well-being, and I honor and value the whole family unit in the therapeutic process. I provide a safe and confidential space for youth (10-18), young adults and parents.
My specialties are clients with ADHD and Executive Functioning, Anxiety, Depression, Disordered Eating Behaviors and Thoughts, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, Bereavement, Self-harm, Social Anxiety and Trauma.
I believe at the core of every individual are the potential building blocks for resiliency. Therapy is a unique opportunity to be listened to and heard in a non-judgmental and safe environment. It is a valuable experience where you will gain insights and learn strategies to better understand your feelings, your strengths, your triggers and your goals. I am an advocate for an individual's well-being, and I honor and value the whole family unit in the therapeutic process. I provide a safe and confidential space for youth (10-18), young adults and parents.
View
Photo of Phyllis S Clymer, LCSW, LCSW-C, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phyllis S Clymer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, CGP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Occasional anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties are a natural part of life but shouldn't outweigh the joy and satisfaction that life can offer. My task is to hear and understood you well, so that you will come to know yourself better identify the "blind spots" that are keeping you stuck and make the changes you're hoping for hard to achieve.
Occasional anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties are a natural part of life but shouldn't outweigh the joy and satisfaction that life can offer. My task is to hear and understood you well, so that you will come to know yourself better identify the "blind spots" that are keeping you stuck and make the changes you're hoping for hard to achieve.
(512) 574-6777 View (512) 574-6777
Photo of Tori Olds, PhD, Psychologist
Tori Olds
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I work primarily with depression, anxiety, young adult concerns, self-esteem, and existential issues.
I am honored by the opportunity to help individuals find greater peace, strength, and fulfillment. Our lives are so busy, there is very little opportunity to stop and discover where support is needed. Taking this time for oneself, whether to reflect on one's relationships, to work through difficult emotions, or to gain awareness as to one's self-perceptions, can be transformative. Because self-compassion is key to healing, I try to template compassion through my own emotional engagement and respect for the client and his/her experience. Videos I made can be found on my website.
I work primarily with depression, anxiety, young adult concerns, self-esteem, and existential issues.
I am honored by the opportunity to help individuals find greater peace, strength, and fulfillment. Our lives are so busy, there is very little opportunity to stop and discover where support is needed. Taking this time for oneself, whether to reflect on one's relationships, to work through difficult emotions, or to gain awareness as to one's self-perceptions, can be transformative. Because self-compassion is key to healing, I try to template compassion through my own emotional engagement and respect for the client and his/her experience. Videos I made can be found on my website.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Danielle Mikeska, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Mikeska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I enjoy working with clients struggling with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, couples, and stress.
My name is Danielle Mikeska, M.Ed, LPC. I enjoy working with clients struggling with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, couples issues, and stress. Life is full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. Maybe you are worried that no one can understand or relate to your situation. Whether you need help navigating the turns of life, bringing yourself up from the downs, or just celebrating the ups, I am here. We all handle life differently, and that is perfectly okay! My focus is to help you figure out what is not working and find what will.
I enjoy working with clients struggling with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, couples, and stress.
My name is Danielle Mikeska, M.Ed, LPC. I enjoy working with clients struggling with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, couples issues, and stress. Life is full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. Maybe you are worried that no one can understand or relate to your situation. Whether you need help navigating the turns of life, bringing yourself up from the downs, or just celebrating the ups, I am here. We all handle life differently, and that is perfectly okay! My focus is to help you figure out what is not working and find what will.
(469) 472-5031 View (469) 472-5031
Photo of Caitlin Coyner, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Coyner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Self Esteem problems, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, and other major mental health challenges. I work mostly with adults and am particularly passionate about working with Geriatric/Elderly populations and those in the LGBTQ communities. My primary types of therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Strengths-Based, although I pull from many areas depending on my client’s needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Self Esteem problems, Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, and other major mental health challenges. I work mostly with adults and am particularly passionate about working with Geriatric/Elderly populations and those in the LGBTQ communities. My primary types of therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Strengths-Based, although I pull from many areas depending on my client’s needs.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Heather Watkins, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
My passion is working with adults and teens who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, work/life balance, and life transitions.
Seeking help and finding the right therapist for you can be a daunting and challenging process. The key to positive, lasting change is finding a therapist who will tailor your treatment based on your individual needs and strengths, and help you overcome the behaviors and thoughts that are getting in your way. You need someone who will listen and understand you without judgment, support you through these changes, be honest with you, and challenge you when needed.
My passion is working with adults and teens who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, work/life balance, and life transitions.
Seeking help and finding the right therapist for you can be a daunting and challenging process. The key to positive, lasting change is finding a therapist who will tailor your treatment based on your individual needs and strengths, and help you overcome the behaviors and thoughts that are getting in your way. You need someone who will listen and understand you without judgment, support you through these changes, be honest with you, and challenge you when needed.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
1
...
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.