Photo of Tom McCabe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Tom McCabe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Juneau, AK 99801
Are you ready to change your life? I help people uncover the strength and motivation that lie beneath familiar habits and patterns. Together we develop new ways of looking at your life and new choices for you. Yes, you need to be willing to bravely face things that are uncomfortable or stuck in your life, but we do that as just one part of turning problems into opportunity and turning opportunity into success. Anxiety, anger, depression, and relationship problems -- they are all experiences we have; they do not have to define you or stop you.
Are you ready to change your life? I help people uncover the strength and motivation that lie beneath familiar habits and patterns. Together we develop new ways of looking at your life and new choices for you. Yes, you need to be willing to bravely face things that are uncomfortable or stuck in your life, but we do that as just one part of turning problems into opportunity and turning opportunity into success. Anxiety, anger, depression, and relationship problems -- they are all experiences we have; they do not have to define you or stop you.
(907) 312-1272 View (907) 312-1272
Photo of Erika McGough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Erika McGough
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654  (Online Only)
Is this you?...toddler pulling on your pant leg, baby on your hip, dishes in the sink. You feel overwhelmed, touched out, exhausted, frazzled, and experience mom guilt. Maybe your kids are older, you're running to and from sports practices/after school activities dealing with attitudes and eye rolls and wondering, 'what next? how do I navigate this?’ I work with womxn navigating parenthood, and also work with womxn experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and stress. If your goal is to gain clarity, find peace, feel empowered, and uphold bad ass boundaries so you can thrive, contact me today!
Is this you?...toddler pulling on your pant leg, baby on your hip, dishes in the sink. You feel overwhelmed, touched out, exhausted, frazzled, and experience mom guilt. Maybe your kids are older, you're running to and from sports practices/after school activities dealing with attitudes and eye rolls and wondering, 'what next? how do I navigate this?’ I work with womxn navigating parenthood, and also work with womxn experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and stress. If your goal is to gain clarity, find peace, feel empowered, and uphold bad ass boundaries so you can thrive, contact me today!
(907) 331-4576 View (907) 331-4576
Photo of Laurie R Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Laurie R Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Depression, Anxiety and Stress Management Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Life Transitions, Burnout and Compassion Fatigue, Relationship Challenges, Trauma and Abuse, Faith and spirituality, Grief and Loss.
As a clinical therapist I am committed to treating the whole person; spirit, mind, and body. I am an EMDR provider and facilitate holistic treatment to adults, adolescents, and couples with a variety of needs.
Depression, Anxiety and Stress Management Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Life Transitions, Burnout and Compassion Fatigue, Relationship Challenges, Trauma and Abuse, Faith and spirituality, Grief and Loss.
As a clinical therapist I am committed to treating the whole person; spirit, mind, and body. I am an EMDR provider and facilitate holistic treatment to adults, adolescents, and couples with a variety of needs.
(907) 318-1614 View (907) 318-1614
Photo of Mara Cramer, Counselor in Alaska
Mara Cramer
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
(907) 312-2729 View (907) 312-2729
Photo of Patty Bullick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Patty Bullick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenai, AK 99611  (Online Only)
Are you ready to ease suffering and pain caused by symptoms of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, or PTSD? Are you seeking a solution-focused, goal-oriented approach to your mental health care? Are you looking for judgment-free, compassionate, and committed guidance for your healing journey?
Are you ready to ease suffering and pain caused by symptoms of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, or PTSD? Are you seeking a solution-focused, goal-oriented approach to your mental health care? Are you looking for judgment-free, compassionate, and committed guidance for your healing journey?
(866) 517-8630 View (866) 517-8630
Photo of Kim Hammans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Kim Hammans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
I enjoy helping people process, whether it be trauma, abuse, grief, loss, or current feelings of depression, anxiety, or confusion.
Do you ever wish you could truly be listened to and understood? I have felt the intensity of that longing and know the joy of having it answered. Because of my experience, I love connecting with people, building relationships, and hearing people's true hearts. It can feel scary to invite another person into our deepest places, but it can help us clarify who we are and allow us to experience healing within a safe relationship. This is why I love counseling. It is a joy to walk alongside people as they discover who they are made to be.
I enjoy helping people process, whether it be trauma, abuse, grief, loss, or current feelings of depression, anxiety, or confusion.
Do you ever wish you could truly be listened to and understood? I have felt the intensity of that longing and know the joy of having it answered. Because of my experience, I love connecting with people, building relationships, and hearing people's true hearts. It can feel scary to invite another person into our deepest places, but it can help us clarify who we are and allow us to experience healing within a safe relationship. This is why I love counseling. It is a joy to walk alongside people as they discover who they are made to be.
(314) 710-3007 View (314) 710-3007
Photo of Ashley Locke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alaska
Ashley Locke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palmer, AK 99645  (Online Only)
I believe in the power of connection and relationships. Many times in our lives, we come into places where we get stuck, feel disconnected, and wonder about our place in this life. This can look like depression, anxiety, disconnection, broken relationships, or more. My aim is to help you feel more settled within yourself, to develop more fulfilling and satisfying relationships, and to create purpose and meaning in your life. Through our time together, it's my sincere hope you will begin to experience the happiness and satisfaction that you are searching for in your life
I believe in the power of connection and relationships. Many times in our lives, we come into places where we get stuck, feel disconnected, and wonder about our place in this life. This can look like depression, anxiety, disconnection, broken relationships, or more. My aim is to help you feel more settled within yourself, to develop more fulfilling and satisfying relationships, and to create purpose and meaning in your life. Through our time together, it's my sincere hope you will begin to experience the happiness and satisfaction that you are searching for in your life
(833) 328-4217 View (833) 328-4217
Photo of Lindsey Russell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Lindsey Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654  (Online Only)
This last year has been so draining and you're just trying to stay afloat. Your anxiety keeps telling you that you have a million things that are left to get accomplished, and your depression is right there to tag in, making you feel terrible for not getting anything done on your list. You are trying to balance difficult co-workers, keeping (and maintaining) friendships, juggling 4 different schedules, and trying to keep your house from looking like a bomb went off. You smile through the day being a great pretender, only to be alone with your thoughts at night and feeling like you’re failing at adulting.
This last year has been so draining and you're just trying to stay afloat. Your anxiety keeps telling you that you have a million things that are left to get accomplished, and your depression is right there to tag in, making you feel terrible for not getting anything done on your list. You are trying to balance difficult co-workers, keeping (and maintaining) friendships, juggling 4 different schedules, and trying to keep your house from looking like a bomb went off. You smile through the day being a great pretender, only to be alone with your thoughts at night and feeling like you’re failing at adulting.
(828) 319-2863 View (828) 319-2863
Photo of Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Kokoro Counseling Alaska, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and Weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Starting April 2024, office hours will be Sundays through Thursdays (3:30 pm - 8:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, postpartum, substance use problems, relationship issues, chronic illness, grief, and stress issues.
Evening and Weekend hours are available for Telehealth. Starting April 2024, office hours will be Sundays through Thursdays (3:30 pm - 8:00 pm). Please send an inquiry or request to have a free 15-minute phone consultation. If you are hurting, fearful, confused, sad, stressed, or surrounded by overwhelming things in life, I am here to guide you through; to cultivate and reconnect with your innate strength to heal your wounds and live a quality life. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to find a unique and individualized process or solution that would take you further along in your healing journey.
(907) 318-8601 View (907) 318-8601
Photo of Jason D. Pretzel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Jason D. Pretzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Homer, AK 99603
Are you dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, problems in relationships, or communication? Are there things you haven't been able to resolve and want to get unstuck? Do you have goals you would like to reach in life? Do you want to function better and feel better? There are many reasons to participate in counseling. We are here to help.
Are you dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, problems in relationships, or communication? Are there things you haven't been able to resolve and want to get unstuck? Do you have goals you would like to reach in life? Do you want to function better and feel better? There are many reasons to participate in counseling. We are here to help.
(907) 885-1985 View (907) 885-1985
Photo of Megan Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Megan Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
By taking the step to initiate therapy, you are already beginning the process of change. At times, we feel lost or lack of confidence to navigate through critical and life-changing circumstances. Although, we have many strengths and skills, we have difficulty accessing these during periods of family or relationship crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma. As a clinician, I will use a mindful approach to facilitate the process of helping you reconnect with your strengths and discover skills, strategies and resources toward a healthier life.
By taking the step to initiate therapy, you are already beginning the process of change. At times, we feel lost or lack of confidence to navigate through critical and life-changing circumstances. Although, we have many strengths and skills, we have difficulty accessing these during periods of family or relationship crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma. As a clinician, I will use a mindful approach to facilitate the process of helping you reconnect with your strengths and discover skills, strategies and resources toward a healthier life.
(907) 782-4553 View (907) 782-4553
Photo of Dr. Nina F Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Dr. Nina F Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99516  (Online Only)
I am currently working with adults individually who are experiencing difficulties in a wide array of issues, such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, etc.
Since 2005, I’ve been working in the field of counseling and school psychology. My degrees include a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, two Masters, one being in Marriage Family Therapy and the other in Educational Counseling with thousands of hours of work with individuals and families. I’m licensed as a professional counselor.
I am currently working with adults individually who are experiencing difficulties in a wide array of issues, such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, etc.
Since 2005, I’ve been working in the field of counseling and school psychology. My degrees include a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, two Masters, one being in Marriage Family Therapy and the other in Educational Counseling with thousands of hours of work with individuals and families. I’m licensed as a professional counselor.
(907) 331-8854 View (907) 331-8854
Photo of Counseling Anchorage, Counselor in Alaska
Counseling Anchorage
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508
We work with clients who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body-image concerns and other challenges of daily living.
People come to counseling when they feel stuck, out of control, or unhappy in some aspect of their lives. Counseling can provide a way to get out of that rut. Through compassionate care in a supportive environment, our counselors use evidenced-based practices like EMDR, CBT and mindfulness-based therapy to help clients move towards the life that they want. For those with eating disorders or body image concerns, we have a specialized team that combines mental health counseling with nutrition counseling to achieve the best possible outcomes. This innovative approach is the first of its kind in Alaska.
We work with clients who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body-image concerns and other challenges of daily living.
People come to counseling when they feel stuck, out of control, or unhappy in some aspect of their lives. Counseling can provide a way to get out of that rut. Through compassionate care in a supportive environment, our counselors use evidenced-based practices like EMDR, CBT and mindfulness-based therapy to help clients move towards the life that they want. For those with eating disorders or body image concerns, we have a specialized team that combines mental health counseling with nutrition counseling to achieve the best possible outcomes. This innovative approach is the first of its kind in Alaska.
(866) 699-6157 View (866) 699-6157
Photo of Confidential Care in Alaska
Confidential Care
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Our providers have extensive knowledge and years of experience in diagnosing and treating Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Major Depression, Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Substance abuse and dependency, and other mental health conditions.
Confidential Care is a private psychiatric and mental health agency dedicated to providing the highest quality therapeutic mental health services to aid individuals, couples, and families through their most difficult and challenging times. Through therapeutic services, the individual will receive emotional support, work to resolve conflicts with people, understand feelings and problems, and try out new solutions to old problems. Confidential Care offers medication management by our psychiatric nurse practitioner and comprehensive counseling services by our therapists.
Our providers have extensive knowledge and years of experience in diagnosing and treating Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Major Depression, Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Substance abuse and dependency, and other mental health conditions.
Confidential Care is a private psychiatric and mental health agency dedicated to providing the highest quality therapeutic mental health services to aid individuals, couples, and families through their most difficult and challenging times. Through therapeutic services, the individual will receive emotional support, work to resolve conflicts with people, understand feelings and problems, and try out new solutions to old problems. Confidential Care offers medication management by our psychiatric nurse practitioner and comprehensive counseling services by our therapists.
(907) 357-1999 View (907) 357-1999
Photo of Aries M McGinnis, Counselor in Alaska
Aries M McGinnis
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99511  (Online Only)
With formal training in EMDR, Brainspotting, and DBT, I have a focus in trauma, anxiety, depression, and inter-personal relationships.
Telehealth Counseling and Coaching throughout the US. While working with people, I help them work through the process of engagement, healing, and growth. My initial approach is to see the greatness of a person. I work with people to help them see their own greatness noting that their behaviors do not define them. The behavior is unhealthy, not the person. Who a person is at the core is always great, healthy, and beautiful. As we pull apart maladaptive behaviors from the individual, I help people become actively engaged in their own therapeutic process beginning a journey of healing and growth.
With formal training in EMDR, Brainspotting, and DBT, I have a focus in trauma, anxiety, depression, and inter-personal relationships.
Telehealth Counseling and Coaching throughout the US. While working with people, I help them work through the process of engagement, healing, and growth. My initial approach is to see the greatness of a person. I work with people to help them see their own greatness noting that their behaviors do not define them. The behavior is unhealthy, not the person. Who a person is at the core is always great, healthy, and beautiful. As we pull apart maladaptive behaviors from the individual, I help people become actively engaged in their own therapeutic process beginning a journey of healing and growth.
(888) 689-6119 View (888) 689-6119
Angela Brown
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Some of the issues that I focus on are anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, sexuality, gender orientation, relationship struggles, life transitions, addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. My purpose as a counselor is to support you along the path to making positive changes in your life. It is not uncommon to feel stuck at times. I offer encouragement, hope, understanding, and added tools to assist you in achieving your goals.
Some of the issues that I focus on are anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, sexuality, gender orientation, relationship struggles, life transitions, addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. My purpose as a counselor is to support you along the path to making positive changes in your life. It is not uncommon to feel stuck at times. I offer encouragement, hope, understanding, and added tools to assist you in achieving your goals.
(907) 251-1053 View (907) 251-1053
Photo of Sally Rae Goble, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alaska
Sally Rae Goble
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99512  (Online Only)
I have been an LMFT since 1993. During that time I've had both education and experience with many of the issues we encounter as we pass through our lives. Couples, individuals and teens are the majority of my practice. We work on relationship problems, divorce and co-parenting, anxiety and depression and parent-child problems. I also have training and experience working with clients with sexual concerns and Active Duty Military, families and Veterans. I am currently accepting telephonic and video clients in Oregon. Telehealth has been extensively researched and found to have similar positive results as face-to-face.
I have been an LMFT since 1993. During that time I've had both education and experience with many of the issues we encounter as we pass through our lives. Couples, individuals and teens are the majority of my practice. We work on relationship problems, divorce and co-parenting, anxiety and depression and parent-child problems. I also have training and experience working with clients with sexual concerns and Active Duty Military, families and Veterans. I am currently accepting telephonic and video clients in Oregon. Telehealth has been extensively researched and found to have similar positive results as face-to-face.
(541) 262-0805 View (541) 262-0805
Photo of James (Daniel) McHarge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
James (Daniel) McHarge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501  (Online Only)
Ready to turn a new page in the chapter of your life? Take a deep breath, envision the new you without judgement. Self-assertive, healthy boundaries, free of anxiety, renewed understanding of the strengths and weakness within you, improved communication in your relationships: this can be you. My work focuses on providing quality mental health services to individuals suffering with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. In addition, I assist individuals currently experiencing significant stressors from work, life transitions, poor communication in marriage, relationships conflict, or grief.
Ready to turn a new page in the chapter of your life? Take a deep breath, envision the new you without judgement. Self-assertive, healthy boundaries, free of anxiety, renewed understanding of the strengths and weakness within you, improved communication in your relationships: this can be you. My work focuses on providing quality mental health services to individuals suffering with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. In addition, I assist individuals currently experiencing significant stressors from work, life transitions, poor communication in marriage, relationships conflict, or grief.
(907) 444-5641 View (907) 444-5641
Photo of Mary E Kuepper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Mary E Kuepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
I am passionate about working with families. Whether dealing with behavioral issues in children, depressed or anxious teens, frustrated and concerned parents, or overwhelmed Mama's, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to build a better life. Through individual, family or child therapy sessions, I help people gain skills to better manage emotions, cope with challenging feelings, and build better relationships. My style is warm, non judgmental and down to earth, with a healthy dose of humor.
I am passionate about working with families. Whether dealing with behavioral issues in children, depressed or anxious teens, frustrated and concerned parents, or overwhelmed Mama's, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to build a better life. Through individual, family or child therapy sessions, I help people gain skills to better manage emotions, cope with challenging feelings, and build better relationships. My style is warm, non judgmental and down to earth, with a healthy dose of humor.
(907) 313-7965 View (907) 313-7965
Photo of Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
Life coaching for relationships, performance, sports, spiritual quest Christian or other spiritual path, addictions, intimacy, sex, mood: depression, postnatal, prenatal, and anxiety, disabilities, and addictions, stress reduction, communication at work or home, Animal assisted and Equine.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
Life coaching for relationships, performance, sports, spiritual quest Christian or other spiritual path, addictions, intimacy, sex, mood: depression, postnatal, prenatal, and anxiety, disabilities, and addictions, stress reduction, communication at work or home, Animal assisted and Equine.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
(907) 318-7841 View (907) 318-7841
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.