Photo of Gardiner Turner, Counselor in 80302, CO
Gardiner Turner
Counselor, BA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
(970) 533-2923 View (970) 533-2923
Photo of Cyndi Rutledge, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Cyndi Rutledge
Psychologist, EdD, CACIII
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I can help you with any trauma-related problems, having training in EMDR and hypnosis, to assist with feelings of unhappiness, confusion and depression along with chronic stress and anxiety management.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad or hopeless? Having trouble with substance abuse? My practice focuses on helping adults of all ages struggling with substance abuse, relationship problems, trauma, depression and anxiety. Providing a safe, stress-free, accepting environment, I will help guide you toward relief and success in your daily life. I have experience working with young men and women in college and men and women of all ages on their personal struggles. I hope you will allow me help you take control of your life and become the happy, content and motivated person you are meant to be.
I can help you with any trauma-related problems, having training in EMDR and hypnosis, to assist with feelings of unhappiness, confusion and depression along with chronic stress and anxiety management.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad or hopeless? Having trouble with substance abuse? My practice focuses on helping adults of all ages struggling with substance abuse, relationship problems, trauma, depression and anxiety. Providing a safe, stress-free, accepting environment, I will help guide you toward relief and success in your daily life. I have experience working with young men and women in college and men and women of all ages on their personal struggles. I hope you will allow me help you take control of your life and become the happy, content and motivated person you are meant to be.
(720) 213-5748 View (720) 213-5748
Photo of Daniel Warsaw Minerva, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Daniel Warsaw Minerva
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Right Psychologist for You! I am the right psychologist for you because we are going to do everything in our power to make your therapy a success. You and I achieve what you need and want now and in the future. We integrate your social, psychological, and emotional well-being. Your treatment equips you with the required training to overcome current and unfolding adversity when encountered. Evidence-based clinical practice enables you to repel anxiety, addiction, depression, relationship, and trauma issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Descriptive Psychology remove your remaining concerns.
Right Psychologist for You! I am the right psychologist for you because we are going to do everything in our power to make your therapy a success. You and I achieve what you need and want now and in the future. We integrate your social, psychological, and emotional well-being. Your treatment equips you with the required training to overcome current and unfolding adversity when encountered. Evidence-based clinical practice enables you to repel anxiety, addiction, depression, relationship, and trauma issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Descriptive Psychology remove your remaining concerns.
(720) 796-4547 View (720) 796-4547
Photo of Jyoti Sharma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Jyoti Sharma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AASW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
You should be SO proud of yourself for taking steps towards change in your life! You may be here because you're exhausted from doing it all on your own. Maybe you feel life transitions and changes are causing overwhelming symptoms of depression and anxiety? Are you seeking a professional to help you with integrating radical healing and medicines, like ketamine assisted therapy, in a safe manner? You need a space for you to honor and process the experiences that have made you into the person you are today. Let me help you navigate the changes to come and the behaviors that no longer serve your genuine self.
You should be SO proud of yourself for taking steps towards change in your life! You may be here because you're exhausted from doing it all on your own. Maybe you feel life transitions and changes are causing overwhelming symptoms of depression and anxiety? Are you seeking a professional to help you with integrating radical healing and medicines, like ketamine assisted therapy, in a safe manner? You need a space for you to honor and process the experiences that have made you into the person you are today. Let me help you navigate the changes to come and the behaviors that no longer serve your genuine self.
(720) 463-0753 View (720) 463-0753
Photo of Erica Brann, LCSW, Psychotherapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Erica Brann, LCSW, Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
The desire to be connected to others is innate, and yet we sometimes find ourselves alone, hopeless, sad, scared, and angry. I believe that being connected to ourselves and others is part of the human experience, and recovery from symptoms that interrupt our ability to live our lives to the fullest is possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I believe change and insight are possible, and freedom from pain and suffering is attainable.
The desire to be connected to others is innate, and yet we sometimes find ourselves alone, hopeless, sad, scared, and angry. I believe that being connected to ourselves and others is part of the human experience, and recovery from symptoms that interrupt our ability to live our lives to the fullest is possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I believe change and insight are possible, and freedom from pain and suffering is attainable.
(720) 782-1142 View (720) 782-1142
Photo of Patrick Ross Vann, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Patrick Ross Vann
Psychologist, Ed, D
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I assume serious intent to address whatever brought the patient to my office in the first place. It is my hope to form the most positive therapeutic alliance possible. The first step is to acknowledge the courage it took to make the call. I have been practicing as a licensed Clinical Psychologist for thirty years. I have also served as a faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder for over twenty years. I mostly see chronic depressed and anxious patients I .have worked across the spectrum from imminently suicidial to the broader existential issues concerning a more meaningful life.
I assume serious intent to address whatever brought the patient to my office in the first place. It is my hope to form the most positive therapeutic alliance possible. The first step is to acknowledge the courage it took to make the call. I have been practicing as a licensed Clinical Psychologist for thirty years. I have also served as a faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder for over twenty years. I mostly see chronic depressed and anxious patients I .have worked across the spectrum from imminently suicidial to the broader existential issues concerning a more meaningful life.
(303) 835-6786 View (303) 835-6786
Photo of Sylvia D Berger, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Sylvia D Berger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, major life stress, major life transitions, shame/guilt, self-esteem, and and self-worth.
Building rapport and having the appropriate fit with your therapist is such a key ingredient. I bring my empathetic, creative, and intuitive approach into the therapeutic relationship. Creating a safe space for my clients to be authentic is my number one goal. My focus is on empowering you to create authentic, meaningful change. I am passionate about supporting you on your journey of self-discovery, helping you in uncovering underlying causes, and guiding you towards the life you're hoping for. Through a process of developing self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and enhancing strengths within, you'll experience deep healing.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, major life stress, major life transitions, shame/guilt, self-esteem, and and self-worth.
Building rapport and having the appropriate fit with your therapist is such a key ingredient. I bring my empathetic, creative, and intuitive approach into the therapeutic relationship. Creating a safe space for my clients to be authentic is my number one goal. My focus is on empowering you to create authentic, meaningful change. I am passionate about supporting you on your journey of self-discovery, helping you in uncovering underlying causes, and guiding you towards the life you're hoping for. Through a process of developing self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and enhancing strengths within, you'll experience deep healing.
(720) 445-8810 View (720) 445-8810
Photo of Michael Clifton, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Michael Clifton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I can help you with struggles like depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, career counseling, and veterans issues (as one of them). Do you need help leaving a bad situation but you feel stuck? Are you struggling to adjust to leaving a bad situation and need some help connecting with your new life? Have you been feeling overwhelmed and you haven't been able to cope with life? Need someone to walk through hell with you and make sure you don't get distracted from the path out of rock bottom depression?
I can help you with struggles like depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, career counseling, and veterans issues (as one of them). Do you need help leaving a bad situation but you feel stuck? Are you struggling to adjust to leaving a bad situation and need some help connecting with your new life? Have you been feeling overwhelmed and you haven't been able to cope with life? Need someone to walk through hell with you and make sure you don't get distracted from the path out of rock bottom depression?
(720) 545-1974 View (720) 545-1974
Photo of Bonnie Brown, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Bonnie Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance-related issues, and hallucinations and/or delusions.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, and I believe that providing a safe and supportive environment fosters alliance and trust within the therapeutic relationship. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients achieve their goals whether that includes easing symptoms of depression or anxiety, working through difficult issues (current or past), increasing coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and/or identifying what's next in life. I am also trained and certified in EMDR.
I have extensive experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance-related issues, and hallucinations and/or delusions.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, and I believe that providing a safe and supportive environment fosters alliance and trust within the therapeutic relationship. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients achieve their goals whether that includes easing symptoms of depression or anxiety, working through difficult issues (current or past), increasing coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and/or identifying what's next in life. I am also trained and certified in EMDR.
(805) 774-1624 View (805) 774-1624
Photo of Win Siwa, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Win Siwa
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MS, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Together, we'll navigate the shadows of trauma, depression, anxiety, life's transitions and more.
Your decision to seek support speaks volumes about your courage and strength. As a therapist, I see individuals with stories, emotions, and vulnerabilities that deserve to be understood and honored with the utmost compassion and warmth.I offer you a safe haven—a sanctuary where vulnerability is met with empathy, and where your struggles are met with unwavering support. Together, we will navigate the ebbs and flows of your emotions, untangling the knots that bind you and illuminating the path towards healing. Your struggles won't define you here; they'll be met with empathy and understanding.
Together, we'll navigate the shadows of trauma, depression, anxiety, life's transitions and more.
Your decision to seek support speaks volumes about your courage and strength. As a therapist, I see individuals with stories, emotions, and vulnerabilities that deserve to be understood and honored with the utmost compassion and warmth.I offer you a safe haven—a sanctuary where vulnerability is met with empathy, and where your struggles are met with unwavering support. Together, we will navigate the ebbs and flows of your emotions, untangling the knots that bind you and illuminating the path towards healing. Your struggles won't define you here; they'll be met with empathy and understanding.
(720) 927-8309 View (720) 927-8309
Photo of Kristina Normann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Kristina Normann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I am a licensed clinical social worker and addictions counselor who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, life transition issues, trauma, and addiction.
Healing takes place through compassion, trust, and acceptance. I strive to help clients recognize their strengths in difficult times and promote healing from past hardships, stress, and addiction issues. I use a holistic approach, with emphasis on the mind-body connection. Several clients have told me that they appreciate my compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative approach.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and addictions counselor who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, life transition issues, trauma, and addiction.
Healing takes place through compassion, trust, and acceptance. I strive to help clients recognize their strengths in difficult times and promote healing from past hardships, stress, and addiction issues. I use a holistic approach, with emphasis on the mind-body connection. Several clients have told me that they appreciate my compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative approach.
(720) 897-5246 View (720) 897-5246
Photo of Ben Keating, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Ben Keating
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, CPRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Ben, and I work with adults of all backgrounds, mental states, and social locations, using techniques, philosophies, and practices from around the world. I have extensive experience working with severe mental illness, addiction, trauma, social challenges, chronic illness & pain, and depression and anxiety. If you struggle to feel connected, to feel purposeful, to feel good most of the time, these are all issues I'd like to help with.
Hello, my name is Ben, and I work with adults of all backgrounds, mental states, and social locations, using techniques, philosophies, and practices from around the world. I have extensive experience working with severe mental illness, addiction, trauma, social challenges, chronic illness & pain, and depression and anxiety. If you struggle to feel connected, to feel purposeful, to feel good most of the time, these are all issues I'd like to help with.
(303) 951-3786 View (303) 951-3786
Photo of Olivia Incardona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Olivia Incardona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a major life transition, by cultivating a supportive, nonjudgemental environment, we can work together to support you in building healthier habits, relationships, and most importantly, sense of self.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Olivia Incardona (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois and her Master of Social Work from the University of Denver. Olivia is a trauma-informed therapist with a focus on empowering clients through a holistic, strengths-based approach. Olivia offers an innovative approach to treatment that prioritizes the interconnectedness of mind and body in order to optimize health and well-being.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a major life transition, by cultivating a supportive, nonjudgemental environment, we can work together to support you in building healthier habits, relationships, and most importantly, sense of self.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Olivia Incardona (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois and her Master of Social Work from the University of Denver. Olivia is a trauma-informed therapist with a focus on empowering clients through a holistic, strengths-based approach. Olivia offers an innovative approach to treatment that prioritizes the interconnectedness of mind and body in order to optimize health and well-being.
(720) 501-6007 View (720) 501-6007
Photo of Shanti Finney-Krigel, Mental Health Counselor in 80302, CO
Shanti Finney-Krigel
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CDP, R-DMT, LADC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Telehealth openings for all of WA and CO! Welcome to the Shanti Wellness Center. I'm Shanti, a compassionate licensed psychotherapist, chemical dependency counselor, dance movement therapist and yoga therapist. I have been a dedicated licensed therapist for over 21 years. With deep compassion and non-judgmental mindful support, I hold a space for growth and healing to occur. This fertile ground allows clients to set reachable goals for positive change. I help clients heal through a wide variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, addiction, transitions and more.
Telehealth openings for all of WA and CO! Welcome to the Shanti Wellness Center. I'm Shanti, a compassionate licensed psychotherapist, chemical dependency counselor, dance movement therapist and yoga therapist. I have been a dedicated licensed therapist for over 21 years. With deep compassion and non-judgmental mindful support, I hold a space for growth and healing to occur. This fertile ground allows clients to set reachable goals for positive change. I help clients heal through a wide variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, addiction, transitions and more.
(425) 600-7517 View (425) 600-7517
Photo of Julie L. Holburn, Counselor in 80302, CO
Julie L. Holburn
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Maybe you've been feeling anxious, depressed or your relationships are struggling. Feeling overwhelmed from depression, PTSD or anxiety can negatively affect your job, your confidence and your ability to be present on a daily basis. You might be thinking - "Nobody knows what I'm going through" - or have thoughts telling you - “You are not good enough.” Maybe you've felt lost and hopeless. You do not have to go through this alone.
Maybe you've been feeling anxious, depressed or your relationships are struggling. Feeling overwhelmed from depression, PTSD or anxiety can negatively affect your job, your confidence and your ability to be present on a daily basis. You might be thinking - "Nobody knows what I'm going through" - or have thoughts telling you - “You are not good enough.” Maybe you've felt lost and hopeless. You do not have to go through this alone.
(720) 897-3909 View (720) 897-3909
Photo of Jamie Glick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Jamie Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
This can lead to challenges including depression, anxiety, addiction, bad habits, unfulfilled relationships, and loneliness.
Its time to put in that work for a successful 2024. Are you struggling with motivation or finding it difficult to accomplish your goals? Have you developed bad habits or feel stuck? I work with people to achieve peak performance. Through my model, the Spire of Performance , I help to people to define the areas of their life they want too see maximum potential and then we develop a plan in 6 different domains. I believe that physical health is closely tied to mental health and incorporate wellness interventions into every treatment plan. I offer yearly mental health check-ups and free phone/video consultation.
This can lead to challenges including depression, anxiety, addiction, bad habits, unfulfilled relationships, and loneliness.
Its time to put in that work for a successful 2024. Are you struggling with motivation or finding it difficult to accomplish your goals? Have you developed bad habits or feel stuck? I work with people to achieve peak performance. Through my model, the Spire of Performance , I help to people to define the areas of their life they want too see maximum potential and then we develop a plan in 6 different domains. I believe that physical health is closely tied to mental health and incorporate wellness interventions into every treatment plan. I offer yearly mental health check-ups and free phone/video consultation.
(720) 734-4661 View (720) 734-4661
Photo of Christina Swift, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Christina Swift
Licensed Professional Counselor, ACC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I specialize in addiction, anxiety, and depression.
“A great deal of the chaos in the world occurs because people don't appreciate themselves.” Chogyam Trungpa. Living is becoming a daunting task in this age of technology, inflation and social media. Seemingly more overwhelming by the second as we navigate a million responsibilities in such a fast-paced and individuated society. I have come to believe that therapy provides us with a space to breath. A sacred home to be with ourselves honestly, to be held in loving kindness, to repair old wounds, and gain self-awareness. My therapeutic approach is highly relational with an intention to reunite you with your authentic self.
I specialize in addiction, anxiety, and depression.
“A great deal of the chaos in the world occurs because people don't appreciate themselves.” Chogyam Trungpa. Living is becoming a daunting task in this age of technology, inflation and social media. Seemingly more overwhelming by the second as we navigate a million responsibilities in such a fast-paced and individuated society. I have come to believe that therapy provides us with a space to breath. A sacred home to be with ourselves honestly, to be held in loving kindness, to repair old wounds, and gain self-awareness. My therapeutic approach is highly relational with an intention to reunite you with your authentic self.
(720) 897-0740 View (720) 897-0740
Photo of Dr. Evelyn Cowen, Psychologist Candidate in 80302, CO
Dr. Evelyn Cowen
Psychologist Candidate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist candidate who provides individual psychotherapy and to adolescents and adults. Some areas of specialization I have are working with eating disorders, general issues with food and body image, the LGBTQ+ community, women's issues, depression, and anxiety. I consider the impact of systemic oppression on individuals’ mental health, in order to contextualize a client’s issues. I am a strong supporter of body positivity, and am a Health at Every Size (HAES) clinician.
I am a psychologist candidate who provides individual psychotherapy and to adolescents and adults. Some areas of specialization I have are working with eating disorders, general issues with food and body image, the LGBTQ+ community, women's issues, depression, and anxiety. I consider the impact of systemic oppression on individuals’ mental health, in order to contextualize a client’s issues. I am a strong supporter of body positivity, and am a Health at Every Size (HAES) clinician.
(720) 605-9921 View (720) 605-9921
Photo of Digital Media Treatment & Education Center- DTEC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Digital Media Treatment & Education Center- DTEC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
We specialize in the education and treatment of digital media overuse, which includes, video game addiction, social media, information overload, spending compulsions, and online pornography overuse and addiction. We prioritize family involvement because we know that including family members supports overall change, and the health and wellness of the whole family. Families find that when involved in treatment they achieve what they came in to change in a more timely fashion. We provide expert advice, education and guidance to individuals and families seeking to learn more about how to use digital media in a healthy, effective manner, as well as to those who are in the depths of addiction. We specialize in the common co-existing issues found alongside or underneath digital media overuse/addiction, such as anxiety, isolation, depression, academic challenges and failure, inability to obtain or keep employment, lying and deceitful behavior, as well as, aggressive and acting out behaviors.
We specialize in the education and treatment of digital media overuse, which includes, video game addiction, social media, information overload, spending compulsions, and online pornography overuse and addiction. We prioritize family involvement because we know that including family members supports overall change, and the health and wellness of the whole family. Families find that when involved in treatment they achieve what they came in to change in a more timely fashion. We provide expert advice, education and guidance to individuals and families seeking to learn more about how to use digital media in a healthy, effective manner, as well as to those who are in the depths of addiction. We specialize in the common co-existing issues found alongside or underneath digital media overuse/addiction, such as anxiety, isolation, depression, academic challenges and failure, inability to obtain or keep employment, lying and deceitful behavior, as well as, aggressive and acting out behaviors.
(720) 513-9293 View (720) 513-9293
Photo of Megan Reichstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Megan Reichstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I have an extensive background in helping young adults and adults with transitions, anxiety, depression, negative thoughts, relationships, and day-to-day life struggles.
I am a Colorado native and have worked closely with our local community for years. I work collaboratively with my clients to support change and outcomes. I believe in establishing accountability, directness, and follow-through to drive change in one's life. I feel it is important for clients to feel heard, understood, and supported to make changes in behaviors to achieve personal goals. I take a person-centered approach while using other therapeutic techniques to help support you in understanding the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and actions to support you in understanding relationships and healing for a better you!
I have an extensive background in helping young adults and adults with transitions, anxiety, depression, negative thoughts, relationships, and day-to-day life struggles.
I am a Colorado native and have worked closely with our local community for years. I work collaboratively with my clients to support change and outcomes. I believe in establishing accountability, directness, and follow-through to drive change in one's life. I feel it is important for clients to feel heard, understood, and supported to make changes in behaviors to achieve personal goals. I take a person-centered approach while using other therapeutic techniques to help support you in understanding the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and actions to support you in understanding relationships and healing for a better you!
(720) 790-5092 View (720) 790-5092
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.