Depression Therapists in Birmingham, AL
Chesie l Roberts
Counselor, MS, ADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
It's not uncommon for individuals who are suffering from Anxiety and depression to turn to unhealthy ways to cope with stress.
Are you struggling to find peace and happiness in your life? Are your negative thoughts causing you anxiety? If so, you are not alone. I help individuals everyday that are struggling with stress and anxiety. We work to regain that balance in your life and help you find that road map towards your goals. This increases your confidence and self esteem. This allows you to focus on the solutions to your problems, reduces your anxiety and as a result you will be more optimistic about life and feel better in less than 4 sessions.
It's not uncommon for individuals who are suffering from Anxiety and depression to turn to unhealthy ways to cope with stress.
Are you struggling to find peace and happiness in your life? Are your negative thoughts causing you anxiety? If so, you are not alone. I help individuals everyday that are struggling with stress and anxiety. We work to regain that balance in your life and help you find that road map towards your goals. This increases your confidence and self esteem. This allows you to focus on the solutions to your problems, reduces your anxiety and as a result you will be more optimistic about life and feel better in less than 4 sessions.
Empower Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
I am advanced trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, with a focus on anxiety and depression.
***Covid_19 Telehealth appointments available. Secure private HIPPA compliant video or phone counseling. Must live in Alabama. EASY, secure, safe. Accepting new clients. If you are stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with where your life is headed, I can help. If you are unfulfilled and unsatisfied with your relationships, I can help. Anxiety and depression are treatable. I will listen with compassion and without judgment as you share what is happening in your life.
I am advanced trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, with a focus on anxiety and depression.
***Covid_19 Telehealth appointments available. Secure private HIPPA compliant video or phone counseling. Must live in Alabama. EASY, secure, safe. Accepting new clients. If you are stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with where your life is headed, I can help. If you are unfulfilled and unsatisfied with your relationships, I can help. Anxiety and depression are treatable. I will listen with compassion and without judgment as you share what is happening in your life.
Kimberly Marable Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35226
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
Mallory Lamm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced counselor who offers individual counseling to those who may be experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma.
What if your negative thoughts and beliefs weren't consuming you every moment of the day? What if you could move throughout your day without overwhelming anxiety or crippling depression? What if you saw life in color again and felt like you could breathe again? I truly believe healing is possible. I personally have found deep proud healing through brainspotting therapy. My goal is to help you do the same with advanced brainspotting practices.
I am an experienced counselor who offers individual counseling to those who may be experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma.
What if your negative thoughts and beliefs weren't consuming you every moment of the day? What if you could move throughout your day without overwhelming anxiety or crippling depression? What if you saw life in color again and felt like you could breathe again? I truly believe healing is possible. I personally have found deep proud healing through brainspotting therapy. My goal is to help you do the same with advanced brainspotting practices.
Kenton Bartlett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243
If you've been stuck in a dark place, and are ready to work on yourself in a deep way with innovative and effective techniques, you've come to the right place! The growing practice of incorporating psychedelic medicine into mental health is a primary specialty, and I currently offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting. Areas I'm most passionate about include trauma, eating disorders, existential crises, suicidality, philosophical and/or spiritual concerns, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationships, and who you are as a person. If working together feels right, I'd love to get to know you!
If you've been stuck in a dark place, and are ready to work on yourself in a deep way with innovative and effective techniques, you've come to the right place! The growing practice of incorporating psychedelic medicine into mental health is a primary specialty, and I currently offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting. Areas I'm most passionate about include trauma, eating disorders, existential crises, suicidality, philosophical and/or spiritual concerns, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationships, and who you are as a person. If working together feels right, I'd love to get to know you!
Catherine Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with adult individuals and with couples for 25+ years. I love what I do. As a part of my practice I utilize various psychological theories while interlacing skill-building techniques related to depression, anxiety/panic, and anger management, communication skills, healthy boundaries, personal growth self-awareness, and trauma/abuse histories. I strive to help people live more fully and functionally in their present-day lives by better understanding how the experiences and relationships from their past inform current experiences, emotions and behavior choices.
I have worked with adult individuals and with couples for 25+ years. I love what I do. As a part of my practice I utilize various psychological theories while interlacing skill-building techniques related to depression, anxiety/panic, and anger management, communication skills, healthy boundaries, personal growth self-awareness, and trauma/abuse histories. I strive to help people live more fully and functionally in their present-day lives by better understanding how the experiences and relationships from their past inform current experiences, emotions and behavior choices.
Richard Fallin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
Many people believe therapy is a quick fix, or more accurately that a therapist can “fix” us or our problems. In reality, therapy is a process that can take time, but most importantly, hard work. Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, or maintaining social connections? Do you need to repair or restore your marriage? Take first steps in preparing for marriage? Learn how to connect as a family? Find a new normal after divorce? Heal from a loss? Navigate the waters of being a teenager and managing your parents and teacher's expectations? As a therapist with over 18 years of experience, I am excited to help you begin.
Many people believe therapy is a quick fix, or more accurately that a therapist can “fix” us or our problems. In reality, therapy is a process that can take time, but most importantly, hard work. Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, or maintaining social connections? Do you need to repair or restore your marriage? Take first steps in preparing for marriage? Learn how to connect as a family? Find a new normal after divorce? Heal from a loss? Navigate the waters of being a teenager and managing your parents and teacher's expectations? As a therapist with over 18 years of experience, I am excited to help you begin.
Patrick Norton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Apollo Counseling is here to provide professional mental health and wellness support for individuals, couples, and families. We specialize in working with medical professionals, college students, adolescents, and young professionals in addressing anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship concerns, and other mental health issues. Apollo Counseling can provide the support you need to overcome challenging obstacles, improve your mental health and wellness, raise your self-esteem, navigate difficult relationships, and face the day with confidence.
Apollo Counseling is here to provide professional mental health and wellness support for individuals, couples, and families. We specialize in working with medical professionals, college students, adolescents, and young professionals in addressing anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship concerns, and other mental health issues. Apollo Counseling can provide the support you need to overcome challenging obstacles, improve your mental health and wellness, raise your self-esteem, navigate difficult relationships, and face the day with confidence.
Mary Tate Wade
Counselor, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Life can be hard and overwhelming. It is easy to feel alone during difficult times, but I am here to walk alongside you with encouragement and support. I take a person-centered approach to counseling by exhibiting empathy and providing a non-judgmental environment. I also integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. With these approaches, we can work together through anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship concerns, grief, stress, life transitions, and more. When treating OCD and anxiety disorders, I also integrate Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) into my approach.
Life can be hard and overwhelming. It is easy to feel alone during difficult times, but I am here to walk alongside you with encouragement and support. I take a person-centered approach to counseling by exhibiting empathy and providing a non-judgmental environment. I also integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. With these approaches, we can work together through anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship concerns, grief, stress, life transitions, and more. When treating OCD and anxiety disorders, I also integrate Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) into my approach.
Kaycee Hair
Associate Licensed Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
I have a background working with a wide array of clients who experience depression, anxiety, social anxiety, adjustment difficulties, identity exploration, sexual/affectional orientation, interpersonal conflict, compromised self-esteem, negative self-talk, relationship conflict, burnout, kinks and fetishes, and varied attachment styles.
I am dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for my clients to come sit on my couch and tell me what is going on. My approach to therapy follows the idea that everyone has a toolkit that is always accessible to them. Therapy is a means to add new tools, sharpen existing ones, and shed old tools we no longer need that weigh us down within our accessible toolkit. I, therefore, aim to align my understanding of your life to find a holistic means to help you to the best of your abilities. I am accepting of all walks of life and any needs specific to your individual lived in experiences.
I have a background working with a wide array of clients who experience depression, anxiety, social anxiety, adjustment difficulties, identity exploration, sexual/affectional orientation, interpersonal conflict, compromised self-esteem, negative self-talk, relationship conflict, burnout, kinks and fetishes, and varied attachment styles.
I am dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for my clients to come sit on my couch and tell me what is going on. My approach to therapy follows the idea that everyone has a toolkit that is always accessible to them. Therapy is a means to add new tools, sharpen existing ones, and shed old tools we no longer need that weigh us down within our accessible toolkit. I, therefore, aim to align my understanding of your life to find a holistic means to help you to the best of your abilities. I am accepting of all walks of life and any needs specific to your individual lived in experiences.
Sara Cook Warner
Counselor, MA, ALC, APTT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Waitlist for new clients
There is so much beauty in being honest and vulnerable. As a therapist, it is a privilege to be able to create a safe space for my clients—a space that gives them an opportunity to build strength, awareness, and resilience. Seeking therapy does not indicate failure or brokenness and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate your life journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety of all ages. I have certifications in Brainspotting, EMDR and TF-CBT. I am also an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist through IITAP which enables me to help betrayed partners navigating betrayal trauma.
There is so much beauty in being honest and vulnerable. As a therapist, it is a privilege to be able to create a safe space for my clients—a space that gives them an opportunity to build strength, awareness, and resilience. Seeking therapy does not indicate failure or brokenness and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate your life journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety of all ages. I have certifications in Brainspotting, EMDR and TF-CBT. I am also an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist through IITAP which enables me to help betrayed partners navigating betrayal trauma.
15 Second Videos
Chesie l Roberts
Empower Counseling & Coaching
Mallory Lamm
Patrick Norton
Errica Williams
Frannie Hartley Horn
Yellow Bird Counseling LLC
Courage Health and Wellness
Ryan Jackson
Erica Johnson
Jasmine Watson
Summerlane Counseling
Anastacia M Rogers
Colleen Craig-Akinsanya, LICSW
Ebonee Lyons
Amanda Pratt
Mind Path Therapies LLC
Counseling God's Way LLC/Rev. Ruth Ceneus
Benjamin Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Laura Wagstaff
Miles Hudson
Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC
Tommie Watkins Jr
Griena Knight Davis
Crystal Crim
Larry R Massey
Thomas John Hunt-Felke
Carlos D Richardson
Regina Turner, LLC
Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight
Integrative Health Services, LLC Lelia Ruffin
Mary-Claire Marshall
New Journey Counseling Services
Donna Clemons
Jolei Higgins
Susie Weiss
Morgan Payne
Sarit Johnson
Kelly Lansden
Karmel Mayo (Reaching Wholeness, LLC)
Sidney Claire Smith
Called2EncourageInc
David Nathan Bailey
Melissa Werner
Paige M. Reynolds
Kali M Cox
Katelyn Pickett
Dionne Mahaffey
TMS Counseling, LLC
Sirie Henley
Oddesty K & Associates
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205 (Online Only)
Immediate availability with some therapists in reduced fee program ($50 - 45min. sessions). Text "New Client" to 205-528-8162 to start. Our commitment to clients is to provide a safe space where you will feel seen, heard and valued in a none-judgmental space. We have therapist trained to work with individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Family Conflict, Relationship Concerns, Stress, Postpartum Depression and Anxiety, Women's Issues, Men's Issues, Anger Concerns, Concerns related to identity or sexual identity, Religion, Parenting and Substance Abuse. LGBTQ+ Friendly. Single Mom Friendly. Veteran Friendly.
Immediate availability with some therapists in reduced fee program ($50 - 45min. sessions). Text "New Client" to 205-528-8162 to start. Our commitment to clients is to provide a safe space where you will feel seen, heard and valued in a none-judgmental space. We have therapist trained to work with individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Family Conflict, Relationship Concerns, Stress, Postpartum Depression and Anxiety, Women's Issues, Men's Issues, Anger Concerns, Concerns related to identity or sexual identity, Religion, Parenting and Substance Abuse. LGBTQ+ Friendly. Single Mom Friendly. Veteran Friendly.
Ginny Nix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
I believe that the first step in effecting positive change in your life begins with building self-awareness. So often, avoiding issues is the easier and more attractive option, but I firmly believe that ignorance is not bliss. As a therapist, my job is to provide a safe and judgement-free space for you to learn more about yourself in order to attain sustainable change. If you are experiencing things like issues in your relationships, loneliness, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem -- I can help you.
I believe that the first step in effecting positive change in your life begins with building self-awareness. So often, avoiding issues is the easier and more attractive option, but I firmly believe that ignorance is not bliss. As a therapist, my job is to provide a safe and judgement-free space for you to learn more about yourself in order to attain sustainable change. If you are experiencing things like issues in your relationships, loneliness, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, low self-esteem -- I can help you.
Cheri Lynn Flow
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Life is not always easy. Anxiety, depression, addiction, conflict, major life changes such as the death of a loved one, entering college, or divorce, etc., and every day stressors can result in loneliness, anger, compulsiveness, and a feeling of hopelessness. However, therapeutic interventions provided in an atmosphere of acceptance and respect allows individuals to develop new ways to overcome and/or cope with life’s challenges. I am eager to listen, help you gain insight, provide resources, and share tools that can help you transition to a life that aligns with your personal values and goals.
Life is not always easy. Anxiety, depression, addiction, conflict, major life changes such as the death of a loved one, entering college, or divorce, etc., and every day stressors can result in loneliness, anger, compulsiveness, and a feeling of hopelessness. However, therapeutic interventions provided in an atmosphere of acceptance and respect allows individuals to develop new ways to overcome and/or cope with life’s challenges. I am eager to listen, help you gain insight, provide resources, and share tools that can help you transition to a life that aligns with your personal values and goals.
Angie Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Trauma comes in many ways and brings with it many difficult symptoms. Fear, worry, sadness, and a feeling that you can't cope are just a few. Others don't always understand you or know how to help. This is especially true for parents who want to help their children navigate traumatic experiences but feel helpless to know where to start. There is nothing more frightening than having a child or teen who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or suicidal thoughts. Teenagers often feel unheard and parents can feel helpless.
Trauma comes in many ways and brings with it many difficult symptoms. Fear, worry, sadness, and a feeling that you can't cope are just a few. Others don't always understand you or know how to help. This is especially true for parents who want to help their children navigate traumatic experiences but feel helpless to know where to start. There is nothing more frightening than having a child or teen who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or suicidal thoughts. Teenagers often feel unheard and parents can feel helpless.
Mills Gorrie
Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35233
Are you feeling lost, stuck, or unfulfilled? Find yourself escaping into repetitive and self-defeating patterns of thought and behavior? If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, phase of life issues, problems with self-confidence or motivation, problematic alcohol or substance use, or just recognize that you may benefit from a supportive conversation with someone outside of your typical network of friends and family members, I would love to talk to you. My hope is that we can work together to help you create a life that you do not feel the need to escape from!
Are you feeling lost, stuck, or unfulfilled? Find yourself escaping into repetitive and self-defeating patterns of thought and behavior? If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, phase of life issues, problems with self-confidence or motivation, problematic alcohol or substance use, or just recognize that you may benefit from a supportive conversation with someone outside of your typical network of friends and family members, I would love to talk to you. My hope is that we can work together to help you create a life that you do not feel the need to escape from!
Jared Montague
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
My experience in the mental health field is varied and includes victim outreach work, crisis intervention, serious mental illness, as well as individuals with developmental disabilities. My current focus is on anxiety, depression, and trauma, but I am passionate about providing mental health services to a variety of populations aged 19 and older. I have special interests in psychotherapy for chronic illnesses, humor in counseling, and providing support for other professionals in helping fields.
My experience in the mental health field is varied and includes victim outreach work, crisis intervention, serious mental illness, as well as individuals with developmental disabilities. My current focus is on anxiety, depression, and trauma, but I am passionate about providing mental health services to a variety of populations aged 19 and older. I have special interests in psychotherapy for chronic illnesses, humor in counseling, and providing support for other professionals in helping fields.
Leah Braue
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35235
I have experience counseling adults with varying issues such as life transitions, complicated relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and grief.
I believe it is brave to seek counseling, and I know positive change can be achieved. Through participation in therapy, people can develop more self-awareness and gain peace of mind. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and move at the pace they decide. My goal is to help people make changes to their thoughts and behaviors in order to improve their relationships and lives.
I have experience counseling adults with varying issues such as life transitions, complicated relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and grief.
I believe it is brave to seek counseling, and I know positive change can be achieved. Through participation in therapy, people can develop more self-awareness and gain peace of mind. I want to meet people where they are in their journey and move at the pace they decide. My goal is to help people make changes to their thoughts and behaviors in order to improve their relationships and lives.
Wise Center for DBT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Many clients I see come in after suffering significantly from riding the highs and lows of intense emotional ups and downs and are in search of learning new coping skills, or strengthening existing ones. Some of these folks suffer from self-harming behaviors, suicidality, addiction, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, or anxiety and depression. The common thread among them, however, is the desire to not only more skillfully regulate their emotions, but to ultimately build a life that they want to live, not just one that they simply are trying to endure.
Many clients I see come in after suffering significantly from riding the highs and lows of intense emotional ups and downs and are in search of learning new coping skills, or strengthening existing ones. Some of these folks suffer from self-harming behaviors, suicidality, addiction, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, or anxiety and depression. The common thread among them, however, is the desire to not only more skillfully regulate their emotions, but to ultimately build a life that they want to live, not just one that they simply are trying to endure.
David E. Myers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Traumatic events or issues with family, relationship and work can lead to depression, chronic anxiety, grief and PTSD. Resultantly, the quality of life deteriorates. Psychotherapy (counseling) enables you to explore your cognitive and emotional sides. It involves connecting your past wounds and present emotions. Psychodynamic therapy enables you to go beyond managing your present emotions and go to the source. I have explored and had many diversified experiences in Spirituality which is important in terms of your present and past experiences. My holistic orientation includes heed to nutrition in all matters related to the MIND-BODY-SPIRIT connection.
Traumatic events or issues with family, relationship and work can lead to depression, chronic anxiety, grief and PTSD. Resultantly, the quality of life deteriorates. Psychotherapy (counseling) enables you to explore your cognitive and emotional sides. It involves connecting your past wounds and present emotions. Psychodynamic therapy enables you to go beyond managing your present emotions and go to the source. I have explored and had many diversified experiences in Spirituality which is important in terms of your present and past experiences. My holistic orientation includes heed to nutrition in all matters related to the MIND-BODY-SPIRIT connection.
See more therapy options for Birmingham
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Birmingham
- Bessemer
- Cahaba Heights
- Crestline Heights
- Homewood
- Hoover
- Irondale
- Leeds
- Meadowbrook
- Mountain Brook
- Pleasant Grove
- Vestavia
- Vestavia Hills
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.