Depression Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Devin Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Devin Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I work with clients across the lifespan who may be struggling with depression; anxiety; self esteem; relationships; life transitions and stress.
CURRENT openings. You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck, held back by worry and doubt. Perhaps you are struggling under the weight of sadness or shame, or due to a loss or trauma that continues to impact you day to day. I offer a skilled, supportive space to guide you through the process of finding your own voice, helping you to create the confident, calm and connected life you wish to live. My style is compassionate, unbiased, and grounding, and I strive to create an environment that fosters growth, self-awareness and lasting change.
I work with clients across the lifespan who may be struggling with depression; anxiety; self esteem; relationships; life transitions and stress.
CURRENT openings. You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck, held back by worry and doubt. Perhaps you are struggling under the weight of sadness or shame, or due to a loss or trauma that continues to impact you day to day. I offer a skilled, supportive space to guide you through the process of finding your own voice, helping you to create the confident, calm and connected life you wish to live. My style is compassionate, unbiased, and grounding, and I strive to create an environment that fosters growth, self-awareness and lasting change.
(202) 933-5781 View (202) 933-5781
Photo of Stephanie Musa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Stephanie Musa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in working with young adults and adults struggling with depression, mood, anxiety, who are overwhelmed with the stressors that life can naturally bring as it relates to work, college or graduate school, moving, making new friends, family, identity, relationships, life transitions, and adjustment concerns. I'm also passionate about working with caregivers and family members who may be seeking support in navigating the emotional challenges of caring for an individual with serious mental illness, including burnout, caregiver fatigue, depression, anxiety, guilt, and feelings of stress and overwhelm.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults struggling with depression, mood, anxiety, who are overwhelmed with the stressors that life can naturally bring as it relates to work, college or graduate school, moving, making new friends, family, identity, relationships, life transitions, and adjustment concerns. I'm also passionate about working with caregivers and family members who may be seeking support in navigating the emotional challenges of caring for an individual with serious mental illness, including burnout, caregiver fatigue, depression, anxiety, guilt, and feelings of stress and overwhelm.
(202) 517-6934 View (202) 517-6934
Photo of Dr. Arianne E. Miller, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Arianne E. Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include self-care, stress management, depression, anxiety, life and career transitions, eating issues, cancer and race-related stress and trauma.
Deciding to go to therapy sometimes takes a long time because we may minimize our suffering and delay finding someone who can help. Whether you are feeling stuck, trying to resolve a specific problem, make a relationship work, or manage stress, illness or trauma, no issue is too small or too big. I work collaboratively with all my clients to develop a safe and authentic relationship to address their goals. I help my clients to understand the history and impact of their relationships and critical life events that have created suffering or difficulty, and develop skills and strategies that lead to growth and long lasting healing.
My areas of expertise include self-care, stress management, depression, anxiety, life and career transitions, eating issues, cancer and race-related stress and trauma.
Deciding to go to therapy sometimes takes a long time because we may minimize our suffering and delay finding someone who can help. Whether you are feeling stuck, trying to resolve a specific problem, make a relationship work, or manage stress, illness or trauma, no issue is too small or too big. I work collaboratively with all my clients to develop a safe and authentic relationship to address their goals. I help my clients to understand the history and impact of their relationships and critical life events that have created suffering or difficulty, and develop skills and strategies that lead to growth and long lasting healing.
(202) 873-1164 View (202) 873-1164
Photo of Bruce S. Gottlieb, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Bruce S. Gottlieb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
As a seasoned licensed psychologist, I specialize in humanistic therapy, which encourages self-exploration, self-awareness, and self-acceptance. This therapy involves empathic listening, unconditional positive regard, and a non-judgmental atmosphere to help patients gain inside it into their feelings, behaviors, and experiences. I work with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, a sense of alienation, trauma aftermath, and couples' dissatisfaction. My mission is to alleviate needless suffering and guide you towards embracing your true self, fostering personal growth and relationship fulfillment.
As a seasoned licensed psychologist, I specialize in humanistic therapy, which encourages self-exploration, self-awareness, and self-acceptance. This therapy involves empathic listening, unconditional positive regard, and a non-judgmental atmosphere to help patients gain inside it into their feelings, behaviors, and experiences. I work with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, a sense of alienation, trauma aftermath, and couples' dissatisfaction. My mission is to alleviate needless suffering and guide you towards embracing your true self, fostering personal growth and relationship fulfillment.
(860) 818-4096 View (860) 818-4096
Photo of George H. Johnson, MSS, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
George H. Johnson, MSS, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
What's wrong with this relationship? The same problems keep on repeating time after time. So what does a study of psychology reveal? A well-trained and experienced psychotherapist can help to shine a light into the dark unconscious places which shroud the mysteries. This helps to bring the issues into consciousness, and once there, allows you to work with them. This work involves change. There may be many underlying issues including: mental states of anxiety and depression, an addiction, anger, lack of trust, various stressors, poor communication, extended family interferences, and more.
What's wrong with this relationship? The same problems keep on repeating time after time. So what does a study of psychology reveal? A well-trained and experienced psychotherapist can help to shine a light into the dark unconscious places which shroud the mysteries. This helps to bring the issues into consciousness, and once there, allows you to work with them. This work involves change. There may be many underlying issues including: mental states of anxiety and depression, an addiction, anger, lack of trust, various stressors, poor communication, extended family interferences, and more.
(215) 345-5175 View (215) 345-5175
Photo of Celebration Of Life Healing Practice- Valerie A Noblin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Celebration Of Life Healing Practice- Valerie A Noblin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017  (Online Only)
I utilize my skills and training to guide individuals towards recognizing root causes of depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma symptoms.
One thing that I feel most accomplished about is being able to effectively “hold a space” for my clients who are in the midst of personal transitions that are affecting their mood and behavior. Often times, individuals are seeking security, acceptance and validation to delve into their innermost thoughts and feelings in an attempt to understand the "how and why" of particular circumstances. Our emotional wounds have a story to tell, lessons to convey. Therapy provides an opportunity to "hear, feel and see" our experiences in a way that guides us to discover meaning, purpose and ways to integrate the insights gained.
I utilize my skills and training to guide individuals towards recognizing root causes of depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma symptoms.
One thing that I feel most accomplished about is being able to effectively “hold a space” for my clients who are in the midst of personal transitions that are affecting their mood and behavior. Often times, individuals are seeking security, acceptance and validation to delve into their innermost thoughts and feelings in an attempt to understand the "how and why" of particular circumstances. Our emotional wounds have a story to tell, lessons to convey. Therapy provides an opportunity to "hear, feel and see" our experiences in a way that guides us to discover meaning, purpose and ways to integrate the insights gained.
(855) 862-2392 View (855) 862-2392
Photo of Margo Ruth Aron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Margo Ruth Aron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
I am an experienced psychotherapist trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I received my advanced training at the Washington Center for Psychoanalysis. I have been practicing for 20 years and work with adults ages 20 and over. I have worked extensively with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work related problems, marital issues and issues of low self esteem. I also have an expertise in couples therapy.
I am an experienced psychotherapist trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I received my advanced training at the Washington Center for Psychoanalysis. I have been practicing for 20 years and work with adults ages 20 and over. I have worked extensively with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work related problems, marital issues and issues of low self esteem. I also have an expertise in couples therapy.
(202) 568-8355 View (202) 568-8355
Photo of Colleen A Calcagni in Washington, DC
Colleen A Calcagni
MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My focus is on anxiety, depression, grief, anger, stress, relationship problems, trauma, domestic violence, disruptive behavior, and adverse life events.
I am a compassionate, board-certified licensed professional counselor. I learned about one of my favorite quotes at summer camp as a child. "For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up." As a counselor, this quote still resonates with me. My approach is to help you "up" with your challenges through compassion and collaboration. Together, we can develop an individualized, personalized, and comprehensive plan to move forward through difficulties in your life.
My focus is on anxiety, depression, grief, anger, stress, relationship problems, trauma, domestic violence, disruptive behavior, and adverse life events.
I am a compassionate, board-certified licensed professional counselor. I learned about one of my favorite quotes at summer camp as a child. "For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up." As a counselor, this quote still resonates with me. My approach is to help you "up" with your challenges through compassion and collaboration. Together, we can develop an individualized, personalized, and comprehensive plan to move forward through difficulties in your life.
(202) 335-6636 View (202) 335-6636
Photo of Rachel Sassoon, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Rachel Sassoon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I believe that psychotherapy provides the opportunity to develop self-awareness, improve our relationships with others, and alleviate distress and suffering. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, dealing with life’s transitions and challenges, or seeking to improve your overall well-being, I can help you develop the strategies and insight to do so. Together we will identify patterns of relating to yourself and others that are no longer working for you and figure out how to replace them with more fulfilling and satisfying ones.
I believe that psychotherapy provides the opportunity to develop self-awareness, improve our relationships with others, and alleviate distress and suffering. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, dealing with life’s transitions and challenges, or seeking to improve your overall well-being, I can help you develop the strategies and insight to do so. Together we will identify patterns of relating to yourself and others that are no longer working for you and figure out how to replace them with more fulfilling and satisfying ones.
(202) 817-2274 View (202) 817-2274
Photo of Carrie Tiller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Carrie Tiller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/vicarious trauma, relationships, adjustment issues, self-esteem, grief, or problems at school/work.
My approach is geared towards helping clients make choices and relate to others in ways that reinforce their feelings of autonomy, fulfillment, and peace. We engage to explore current situations and the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and then develop strategies to help better manage situations or make decisions. Strategies we explore may include short term action plans as well as longer term resilience building to manage ongoing challenges. I will work with clients to develop new ways of interpreting difficulties, understanding others, and communicating that are in line with their own values and hopes.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/vicarious trauma, relationships, adjustment issues, self-esteem, grief, or problems at school/work.
My approach is geared towards helping clients make choices and relate to others in ways that reinforce their feelings of autonomy, fulfillment, and peace. We engage to explore current situations and the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and then develop strategies to help better manage situations or make decisions. Strategies we explore may include short term action plans as well as longer term resilience building to manage ongoing challenges. I will work with clients to develop new ways of interpreting difficulties, understanding others, and communicating that are in line with their own values and hopes.
(202) 935-7222 View (202) 935-7222
Photo of Sabanoh LLC, Counselor in Washington, DC
Sabanoh LLC
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Are all the pieces in your life falling into place except one area and you can't figure out why? Do you need an ear, an objective voice, and a place where you can truly be yourself, in a judgement free zone? My goal is to help you find peace and balance to be your best self. I work with clients on issues like stress, identity, family issues, depression and more.
Are all the pieces in your life falling into place except one area and you can't figure out why? Do you need an ear, an objective voice, and a place where you can truly be yourself, in a judgement free zone? My goal is to help you find peace and balance to be your best self. I work with clients on issues like stress, identity, family issues, depression and more.
(202) 933-9240 View (202) 933-9240
Photo of Megan Flood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Megan Flood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
For more than 22 years I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
For more than 22 years I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
(202) 851-8367 View (202) 851-8367
Photo of Mia Foley, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Mia Foley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with my clients to develop a treatment program that meets their individual needs. I employ research-proven techniques in working with a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder and habit control problems. I also provide treatment for interpersonal challenges, such as relationship or personality issues as well as anything that interferes with the ability to live a fulfilling and productive life. While I work from a predominantly cognitive-behavioral framework, I often integrate techniques from other schools of therapy, particularly when working with complex problems.
I work collaboratively with my clients to develop a treatment program that meets their individual needs. I employ research-proven techniques in working with a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder and habit control problems. I also provide treatment for interpersonal challenges, such as relationship or personality issues as well as anything that interferes with the ability to live a fulfilling and productive life. While I work from a predominantly cognitive-behavioral framework, I often integrate techniques from other schools of therapy, particularly when working with complex problems.
(202) 760-2048 View (202) 760-2048
Photo of Yolanda Pearson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Yolanda Pearson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
I help clients who feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, life changes, transitions, and career issues. I am committed to helping you reconnect with your strengths and establish resilience towards navigating the challenges of life. It is incredibly important to establish a therapeutic rapport with you. My role is to provide authentic, empathy, and positive regard to assist you with developing the skills necessary for change and growth. As your therapist, my mission is to provide you with tools to reach your therapy goals. I will work collaboratively with you to discover the most resilient and confident version of yourself.
I help clients who feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, life changes, transitions, and career issues. I am committed to helping you reconnect with your strengths and establish resilience towards navigating the challenges of life. It is incredibly important to establish a therapeutic rapport with you. My role is to provide authentic, empathy, and positive regard to assist you with developing the skills necessary for change and growth. As your therapist, my mission is to provide you with tools to reach your therapy goals. I will work collaboratively with you to discover the most resilient and confident version of yourself.
(202) 937-0530 View (202) 937-0530
Photo of Keltie Hawkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Keltie Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My expertise lies in treatment of complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression.
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
My expertise lies in treatment of complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression.
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
(202) 918-4218 View (202) 918-4218
Photo of Helen DeVinney, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Helen DeVinney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Focus areas in my practice include relational and acute trauma, sexual assault, and persistent depression and/or anxiety, and difficulty navigating relationships.
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you feel like "something" in your life isn't working -- perhaps within yourself, a relationship, or your career. Sometimes it's hard to know what that "something" is, and, other times, the feeling may be directly connected to a specific event, relationship, or personality trait. As your therapist, I will work with you at a pace that feels manageable, and together we will reflect on what feels like it's not working and identify possibilities that may bring relief or change.
Focus areas in my practice include relational and acute trauma, sexual assault, and persistent depression and/or anxiety, and difficulty navigating relationships.
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you feel like "something" in your life isn't working -- perhaps within yourself, a relationship, or your career. Sometimes it's hard to know what that "something" is, and, other times, the feeling may be directly connected to a specific event, relationship, or personality trait. As your therapist, I will work with you at a pace that feels manageable, and together we will reflect on what feels like it's not working and identify possibilities that may bring relief or change.
(410) 793-1307 View (410) 793-1307
Photo of Natasha Chantal Watkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Natasha Chantal Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA , LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
We all encounter challenges in life without caution. Handling the surge of emotions resulting from these unexpected experiences can negatively impact our behavior and interaction with others. My goal is to help you overcome those difficulties and re-imagine your life in the future. I am a psychotherapist who helps get to the root of your symptoms. Whether it’s anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, problems with self-esteem, or relationship difficulties, we will identify whatever hinders your growth to a better you. No matter where we begin, we work together, and your journey is based on the steps you choose to take.
We all encounter challenges in life without caution. Handling the surge of emotions resulting from these unexpected experiences can negatively impact our behavior and interaction with others. My goal is to help you overcome those difficulties and re-imagine your life in the future. I am a psychotherapist who helps get to the root of your symptoms. Whether it’s anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, problems with self-esteem, or relationship difficulties, we will identify whatever hinders your growth to a better you. No matter where we begin, we work together, and your journey is based on the steps you choose to take.
(202) 980-2118 View (202) 980-2118
Photo of The MECCA Group LLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
The MECCA Group LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Our therapists have specialties that include depression, anxiety, parenting/co-parenting, behavior modification, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
The MECCA Group is comprised of a clinically and culturally diverse team of professionals who provide comprehensive services for children, adolescents, young adults, and their support systems in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area. Our dedicated team of therapeutic professionals consists of psychologists, social workers, counselors, behavior analysts, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, vocational specialists, and special educators. All professional team members have extensive knowledge and experience in providing evidence-based practices as well comprehensive holistic care to help all clients reach their highest potential and to Live Fully.
Our therapists have specialties that include depression, anxiety, parenting/co-parenting, behavior modification, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
The MECCA Group is comprised of a clinically and culturally diverse team of professionals who provide comprehensive services for children, adolescents, young adults, and their support systems in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area. Our dedicated team of therapeutic professionals consists of psychologists, social workers, counselors, behavior analysts, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, vocational specialists, and special educators. All professional team members have extensive knowledge and experience in providing evidence-based practices as well comprehensive holistic care to help all clients reach their highest potential and to Live Fully.
(202) 759-8874 View (202) 759-8874
Photo of Charles Martinez | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy in Washington, DC
Charles Martinez | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy
FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
I am a Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and I and oversee Stella Center DC. We support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and TBI. We offer in-office medical treatments for mental health paired with trauma-informed integration therapy to bring dramatic healing in the window of transformation following treatment. Our protocols include medical and biopsychosocial assessments, ketamine infusions, the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), integration therapy, and more.
I am a Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and I and oversee Stella Center DC. We support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and TBI. We offer in-office medical treatments for mental health paired with trauma-informed integration therapy to bring dramatic healing in the window of transformation following treatment. Our protocols include medical and biopsychosocial assessments, ketamine infusions, the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), integration therapy, and more.
(202) 933-9267 View (202) 933-9267
Photo of Sonja Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sonja Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I believe that everyone has the capacity to accomplish their goals. My role is to help you uncover and understand the obstacles and trauma that are getting in the way of achieving what you desire, and then help you tap into your inner resources to succeed. With empathy and authenticity, I work alongside my clients to promote healing and discovery of their power to change. Whether you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss; problems with relationships, parenting, or self-esteem; or a general sense of disconnectedness – whatever it is – I recognize that therapy is self-work, and it's not easy.
I believe that everyone has the capacity to accomplish their goals. My role is to help you uncover and understand the obstacles and trauma that are getting in the way of achieving what you desire, and then help you tap into your inner resources to succeed. With empathy and authenticity, I work alongside my clients to promote healing and discovery of their power to change. Whether you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss; problems with relationships, parenting, or self-esteem; or a general sense of disconnectedness – whatever it is – I recognize that therapy is self-work, and it's not easy.
(202) 849-7842 View (202) 849-7842
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.