Photo of Conway Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC in Arkansas
Conway Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC
PhD
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034
We have practitioners with additional training and specialties in the areas of Addictions, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Court ordered treatment, Couples, Adult ADHD evaluation and behavioral modification, pre-surgical evaluations, yoga therapy, and others.
Conway Counseling & Wellness Center is a group private practice of practitioners with specialties in mental health and wellness including psychiatry. Our treatment is holistic and incorporates traditional counseling with wellness services such as art therapy, yoga therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and massage. A client with anxiety could benefit from individual counseling, family therapy, yoga, and massage. Another client working to minimize an addiction could receive individual and group counseling, yoga for 12 step recovery, and hypnotherapy. By offering a range of services we can customize treatment.
We have practitioners with additional training and specialties in the areas of Addictions, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Court ordered treatment, Couples, Adult ADHD evaluation and behavioral modification, pre-surgical evaluations, yoga therapy, and others.
Conway Counseling & Wellness Center is a group private practice of practitioners with specialties in mental health and wellness including psychiatry. Our treatment is holistic and incorporates traditional counseling with wellness services such as art therapy, yoga therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and massage. A client with anxiety could benefit from individual counseling, family therapy, yoga, and massage. Another client working to minimize an addiction could receive individual and group counseling, yoga for 12 step recovery, and hypnotherapy. By offering a range of services we can customize treatment.
(501) 238-6523 View (501) 238-6523
Photo of Chloe Zahn, Counselor in Arkansas
Chloe Zahn
Counselor, LAC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I'm an experienced counselor dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health concerns and relationship issues. My practice focuses on hearing and collaborating with you to create a treatment plan specific to you and your needs. My approach includes emotion focused and others, provide therapy to individuals, beginning with adolescence through senior adult, which includes treatment for, but is not limited to phase of life and adjustment disorders, depression and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, personality disorders, and interpersonal relationship distress. I also provide premarital and couples counseling.
I'm an experienced counselor dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health concerns and relationship issues. My practice focuses on hearing and collaborating with you to create a treatment plan specific to you and your needs. My approach includes emotion focused and others, provide therapy to individuals, beginning with adolescence through senior adult, which includes treatment for, but is not limited to phase of life and adjustment disorders, depression and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, personality disorders, and interpersonal relationship distress. I also provide premarital and couples counseling.
(479) 662-1287 View (479) 662-1287
Photo of Josh H. Strickland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Josh H. Strickland
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72211
Josh has experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples and is well versed in grief therapy, anxiety and depression, issues pertaining to suicide, issues pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community, and special issues pertaining to adolescents. He is currently a part-time faculty member with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and has held other various professorial positions. He has worked on several non-profit boards advancing the access to mental health resources, educating the public on depression and suicide, working for the rights of minorities, and educating the public on issues pertaining to veterans
Josh has experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples and is well versed in grief therapy, anxiety and depression, issues pertaining to suicide, issues pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community, and special issues pertaining to adolescents. He is currently a part-time faculty member with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and has held other various professorial positions. He has worked on several non-profit boards advancing the access to mental health resources, educating the public on depression and suicide, working for the rights of minorities, and educating the public on issues pertaining to veterans
(501) 289-5689 View (501) 289-5689
Photo of Retrospect Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Retrospect Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paragould, AR 72450
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trying to manage stress inducing life adjustments on a daily basis? Have you been impacted by an adverse life experience, or traumatic events that that continuously hinders the way you view yourself, others and the world in a positive matter. Have you tried therapy in the past with little improvement? Let our team at Retrospect Counseling help you to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trying to manage stress inducing life adjustments on a daily basis? Have you been impacted by an adverse life experience, or traumatic events that that continuously hinders the way you view yourself, others and the world in a positive matter. Have you tried therapy in the past with little improvement? Let our team at Retrospect Counseling help you to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
(870) 259-4683 View (870) 259-4683
Photo of Cardinal Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Cardinal Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Cardinal Counseling Services, PLLC, is a mental health counseling clinic providing therapy services in the areas of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma recovery and relationship issues. Cardinal counselors are highly educated, trained in evidence-based practices by industry experts, and committed to integrating client feedback in every session to make sure we stay on track towards your goals.
Cardinal Counseling Services, PLLC, is a mental health counseling clinic providing therapy services in the areas of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma recovery and relationship issues. Cardinal counselors are highly educated, trained in evidence-based practices by industry experts, and committed to integrating client feedback in every session to make sure we stay on track towards your goals.
(501) 263-2295 View (501) 263-2295
Photo of Nicole Bingham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Nicole Bingham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
My mission is to help you on your way to mental health wellness, by providing you with a safe, nonjudgmental and comfortable atmosphere. I want to empower you to become the boss of you and your emotions. I'll teach you coping skills to decrease your depression and reframe negative and irrational thoughts. I have years of experience working with persons of all ages, but mostly with children, adolescents and families. I'm committed to providing you with compassion, hope and healing as well as empathy, positive regard and encouragement throughout your journey to being more mentally healthy.
My mission is to help you on your way to mental health wellness, by providing you with a safe, nonjudgmental and comfortable atmosphere. I want to empower you to become the boss of you and your emotions. I'll teach you coping skills to decrease your depression and reframe negative and irrational thoughts. I have years of experience working with persons of all ages, but mostly with children, adolescents and families. I'm committed to providing you with compassion, hope and healing as well as empathy, positive regard and encouragement throughout your journey to being more mentally healthy.
(870) 397-6706 View (870) 397-6706
Photo of Michael C. Flowers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Michael C. Flowers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, TA-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703  (Online Only)
I strongly believe in the POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS! School is hard. Work is stressful. Trauma is destructive. Families need help. I recognize strengths and solutions to validate, empathize, and affirm even when people are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues. I provide EMDR for trauma, Solution and Strengths-Focused Therapy, Family Systems, and strengthening the family structure. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative and supportive. Educators are my heroes, and I seek to serve them. I have substantial experience working in school settings providing training and interventions.
I strongly believe in the POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS! School is hard. Work is stressful. Trauma is destructive. Families need help. I recognize strengths and solutions to validate, empathize, and affirm even when people are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues. I provide EMDR for trauma, Solution and Strengths-Focused Therapy, Family Systems, and strengthening the family structure. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative and supportive. Educators are my heroes, and I seek to serve them. I have substantial experience working in school settings providing training and interventions.
(501) 443-8025 View (501) 443-8025
Photo of Katherine C Shook, Licensed Certified Social Worker in Arkansas
Katherine C Shook
Licensed Certified Social Worker, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I work with adults, seniors, children and families. If you (or a loved one) are feeling depressed, anxious, or have sleep disturbances, low self-esteem, relationship issues or are in crisis, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment in which to explore self-defeating patterns or incoherent beliefs to help you to restore harmony to your life. Frequently small changes can have a big impact
I work with adults, seniors, children and families. If you (or a loved one) are feeling depressed, anxious, or have sleep disturbances, low self-esteem, relationship issues or are in crisis, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment in which to explore self-defeating patterns or incoherent beliefs to help you to restore harmony to your life. Frequently small changes can have a big impact
(479) 721-1788 View (479) 721-1788
Photo of Kanaka K. Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Kanaka K. Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Feeling vulnerable is never an easy task, it can be scary; I am here to help. Do you feel isolated, anxious, sad, and unmotivated? Life is filled with change; some planned and exciting, others unexpected and scary. Sometimes even planned change can tax our coping ability. That is what I am here for, to assist in navigating the unknown of life, we are experiencing so many unknowns at the moment. I am here to help with isolation, anxiety, depression, life changes, and coping skills building. I am an unbias sounding board, I care and I want to help. I believe change is possible and I would love to assist you in your journey.
Feeling vulnerable is never an easy task, it can be scary; I am here to help. Do you feel isolated, anxious, sad, and unmotivated? Life is filled with change; some planned and exciting, others unexpected and scary. Sometimes even planned change can tax our coping ability. That is what I am here for, to assist in navigating the unknown of life, we are experiencing so many unknowns at the moment. I am here to help with isolation, anxiety, depression, life changes, and coping skills building. I am an unbias sounding board, I care and I want to help. I believe change is possible and I would love to assist you in your journey.
(479) 269-1947 View (479) 269-1947
Photo of Lakera Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Lakera Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205  (Online Only)
Lakera has experience working with clients with various mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, grief issues, conduct disorders, adjustment disorders, substance use issues, and career/life transitions. She has worked with all populations, including children, adolescents, and adults. She is also an infant mental health therapist in the state of Arkansas. Utilizing cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies, she believes that clients can be empowered to use all life experiences to create a brighter, better reality and live to their fullest potential.
Lakera has experience working with clients with various mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, grief issues, conduct disorders, adjustment disorders, substance use issues, and career/life transitions. She has worked with all populations, including children, adolescents, and adults. She is also an infant mental health therapist in the state of Arkansas. Utilizing cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies, she believes that clients can be empowered to use all life experiences to create a brighter, better reality and live to their fullest potential.
(501) 298-1048 View (501) 298-1048
Photo of Serenity Health & Wellness, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Serenity Health & Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, trauma, attention deficit disorders, adults and teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes, life stresses, emotional regulation, problems in relationships, substance abuse, psychosis, mood instability, cultural issues, grief and/or unresolved losses.
Marsha Sproling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides therapy to adolescents and adults using a client- centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. Preferred treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive therapy, EMDR, Integrative Sandtray Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believes that change happens when people are given the support needed to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. I have over 13 years experience in a variety of settings with diverse clients providing both long term and brief treatment.
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, trauma, attention deficit disorders, adults and teens with self-injurious behaviors/behavior issues, phase of life changes, life stresses, emotional regulation, problems in relationships, substance abuse, psychosis, mood instability, cultural issues, grief and/or unresolved losses.
Marsha Sproling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides therapy to adolescents and adults using a client- centered, eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. Preferred treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive therapy, EMDR, Integrative Sandtray Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I believes that change happens when people are given the support needed to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live a fulfilling, happy life. I have over 13 years experience in a variety of settings with diverse clients providing both long term and brief treatment.
(501) 271-3655 View (501) 271-3655
Photo of Cody A Willis, Counselor in Arkansas
Cody A Willis
Counselor, MSMFT, TAC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Are you hanging on by a thread? I love helping people reach their goals as parents, spouses, or individuals. You can have you ideal life. I work with adults and teens experiencing depression, anxiety, or lack of direction in life; parents seeking relationships that work with their children; couples wanting to repair and grow their relationship; and help managing anger or resolving trauma. I have a knack for motivating young people to their purpose and developing action steps to move forward. I am also a certified Technology Assisted/Distance Based Counselor. We can work together over video chat, phone call or text based sessions.
Are you hanging on by a thread? I love helping people reach their goals as parents, spouses, or individuals. You can have you ideal life. I work with adults and teens experiencing depression, anxiety, or lack of direction in life; parents seeking relationships that work with their children; couples wanting to repair and grow their relationship; and help managing anger or resolving trauma. I have a knack for motivating young people to their purpose and developing action steps to move forward. I am also a certified Technology Assisted/Distance Based Counselor. We can work together over video chat, phone call or text based sessions.
(501) 859-6249 View (501) 859-6249
Photo of Erin May Carroll, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Erin May Carroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Erin received her Master’s in Counseling from the University of Arkansas, and has been active in the mental health field for 20 years. While her primary focus has been with children, adolescents and families, she also has experience working with adults across the lifespan. She works with clients struggling with depression, self-harm, anxiety, trauma, grief, mood disorders, and parenting issues. She is an affirmation therapist who is passionate about providing mental health services for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Erin will support you in creating meaningful and lasting changes in your relationships, your family, and in yourself.
Erin received her Master’s in Counseling from the University of Arkansas, and has been active in the mental health field for 20 years. While her primary focus has been with children, adolescents and families, she also has experience working with adults across the lifespan. She works with clients struggling with depression, self-harm, anxiety, trauma, grief, mood disorders, and parenting issues. She is an affirmation therapist who is passionate about providing mental health services for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Erin will support you in creating meaningful and lasting changes in your relationships, your family, and in yourself.
(479) 790-9473 View (479) 790-9473
Photo of Kellee McCoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Kellee McCoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
A few of my specialties include life coaching, treating anxiety, depression, high-conflict couples, blended family issues, premarital counseling, single parenting issues, affair recovery, sex/intimacy issues, codependency, anger management, mindfulness training, PTSD, trauma resolution, bad habits/addictions, and issues dealing with spirituality.
Are you Stuck? Maybe your professional life is thriving, but your relationships are a mess. Maybe it's the other way around. I welcome your rough edges, embarrassing mistakes, relationship drama, or shameful experiences. I am passionate about helping people get unstuck. Whether it's a relationship issue, a personal hangup, grief and loss, professional burnout, or difficulty overcoming a traumatic experience, together, we will take some significant steps toward you feeling better and toward your life goals.
A few of my specialties include life coaching, treating anxiety, depression, high-conflict couples, blended family issues, premarital counseling, single parenting issues, affair recovery, sex/intimacy issues, codependency, anger management, mindfulness training, PTSD, trauma resolution, bad habits/addictions, and issues dealing with spirituality.
Are you Stuck? Maybe your professional life is thriving, but your relationships are a mess. Maybe it's the other way around. I welcome your rough edges, embarrassing mistakes, relationship drama, or shameful experiences. I am passionate about helping people get unstuck. Whether it's a relationship issue, a personal hangup, grief and loss, professional burnout, or difficulty overcoming a traumatic experience, together, we will take some significant steps toward you feeling better and toward your life goals.
(501) 215-5861 View (501) 215-5861
Photo of Kristy Staton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Kristy Staton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bono, AR 72416  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction and relationship distress. I work hard to make you as comfortable as possible in a therapeutic atmosphere focused on your goals and growth. My style is relaxed and compassionate, and I fully invest in providing a judgment-free environment to all clients. I’m an objective listening ear and believe that with the right support, feedback and encouragement, all clients are able to walk away better than when they arrived. Reach out to me and let’s set up a time to meet one another and take it, one step at a time.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction and relationship distress. I work hard to make you as comfortable as possible in a therapeutic atmosphere focused on your goals and growth. My style is relaxed and compassionate, and I fully invest in providing a judgment-free environment to all clients. I’m an objective listening ear and believe that with the right support, feedback and encouragement, all clients are able to walk away better than when they arrived. Reach out to me and let’s set up a time to meet one another and take it, one step at a time.
(501) 200-4715 View (501) 200-4715
Photo of Melody S Mosley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Melody S Mosley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, AR 72401
I currently see individuals ages 12 and up and specialize in several areas such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, etc.
Hello all! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings pouring into the lives of children, families, and adults. I firmly believe in meeting people where they are. My theme is "you can always begin again". Some people feel like they can't but my job is to ensure that you can and to walk alongside you on your journey. I have a huge heart and passion for helping others live on purpose, grow, flourish, heal, thrive, and to become the best version of themselves.
I currently see individuals ages 12 and up and specialize in several areas such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, etc.
Hello all! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in various settings pouring into the lives of children, families, and adults. I firmly believe in meeting people where they are. My theme is "you can always begin again". Some people feel like they can't but my job is to ensure that you can and to walk alongside you on your journey. I have a huge heart and passion for helping others live on purpose, grow, flourish, heal, thrive, and to become the best version of themselves.
(870) 657-0134 View (870) 657-0134
Photo of Tracey Wren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Tracey Wren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
I’m glad you are looking for someone to talk to! Maybe you are experiencing major life changes, struggling with depression or anxiety, dealing with trauma or relationship wounds, or just feeling stuck or in “auto-pilot” mode. Whatever is bringing you to therapy, I want to reassure you that I am ready to sit with you, listen with my whole heart, and help you work towards the goals you have (and you decide those). Together we will work to forge a path of more peace, connection, and fulfillment with yourself and in your life. I believe we all need a space to process life and I am honored to get to be a part of that healing process.
I’m glad you are looking for someone to talk to! Maybe you are experiencing major life changes, struggling with depression or anxiety, dealing with trauma or relationship wounds, or just feeling stuck or in “auto-pilot” mode. Whatever is bringing you to therapy, I want to reassure you that I am ready to sit with you, listen with my whole heart, and help you work towards the goals you have (and you decide those). Together we will work to forge a path of more peace, connection, and fulfillment with yourself and in your life. I believe we all need a space to process life and I am honored to get to be a part of that healing process.
(479) 777-2833 View (479) 777-2833
Photo of Erin B Boydston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Erin B Boydston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
I truly love helping all age groups from 5 years old to the middle-aged adult female. I have experience with children, teens, families, and adults. I hold a specialization in play therapy and love to utilize it into sessions both with the littles and bigs. “Play is the window to the soul” and you are never too old to play. I also love working with young woman college age that are experiencing anxiety, depression, and transitional difficulties related to creating more of that independence and navigating social relationships.
I truly love helping all age groups from 5 years old to the middle-aged adult female. I have experience with children, teens, families, and adults. I hold a specialization in play therapy and love to utilize it into sessions both with the littles and bigs. “Play is the window to the soul” and you are never too old to play. I also love working with young woman college age that are experiencing anxiety, depression, and transitional difficulties related to creating more of that independence and navigating social relationships.
(501) 300-7593 View (501) 300-7593
Photo of Stacy Adams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arkansas
Stacy Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-TA, ASDCS, CCATPCA, EMDR-T, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenwood, AR 72936
I want to start by saying that I truly hold a solid belief that each and every human deserves to feel happiness, love, excitement, contentment, and ultimately to achieve their dreams, desires, goals, and best-selves! I implement an integrative approach, with a craving to help. Whether that assistance be with a child struggling with ADHD, an individual learning to cope with anxiety/depression, a couple struggling, or an entire family in need, I am devoted to seeking out and destroying the obstacles, strongholds, cognitive distortions, or whatever the “problem” is that is impeding their ability to live happy, healthy, fulfilled lives.
I want to start by saying that I truly hold a solid belief that each and every human deserves to feel happiness, love, excitement, contentment, and ultimately to achieve their dreams, desires, goals, and best-selves! I implement an integrative approach, with a craving to help. Whether that assistance be with a child struggling with ADHD, an individual learning to cope with anxiety/depression, a couple struggling, or an entire family in need, I am devoted to seeking out and destroying the obstacles, strongholds, cognitive distortions, or whatever the “problem” is that is impeding their ability to live happy, healthy, fulfilled lives.
(479) 342-4522 View (479) 342-4522
Photo of Jessica Miller, Counselor in Arkansas
Jessica Miller
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, AR 72601
An ideal client is a 6-18 year-old who is struggling with depression, ADHD, social skills, anxiety, and family communication. This age can be challenging as children navigate their emotions/relationships. With a compassionate and person-centered approach, I aim to create a supportive environment where the client can express their feelings, develop effective communication skills, and build resilience. Together, we will work on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of their struggles, while equipping them with tools and strategies to manage their emotions and improve their overall well-being.
An ideal client is a 6-18 year-old who is struggling with depression, ADHD, social skills, anxiety, and family communication. This age can be challenging as children navigate their emotions/relationships. With a compassionate and person-centered approach, I aim to create a supportive environment where the client can express their feelings, develop effective communication skills, and build resilience. Together, we will work on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of their struggles, while equipping them with tools and strategies to manage their emotions and improve their overall well-being.
(870) 539-9914 View (870) 539-9914

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.