Photo of Cristiano Santostefano, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Cristiano Santostefano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I have advanced training in treatments providing relief from symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, trauma and parenting.
You're looking to untie emotional knots that complicate fulfilling relationships and developing confidence. In treatment, we'll work together to uncover core emotional issues, learning techniques that foster insight about how these issues affect you, both in the past and present. I believe these insights can support you to make meaningful changes.
I have advanced training in treatments providing relief from symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, trauma and parenting.
You're looking to untie emotional knots that complicate fulfilling relationships and developing confidence. In treatment, we'll work together to uncover core emotional issues, learning techniques that foster insight about how these issues affect you, both in the past and present. I believe these insights can support you to make meaningful changes.
(202) 839-9827 View (202) 839-9827
Photo of Brigit Van Widenfelt, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Brigit Van Widenfelt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Hello. In my practice I work with clients on relationship issues, anxiety, depression and related difficulties. I am a Clinical Psychologist and have worked at the University my entire career doing clinical research, mentoring, supervising, teaching, training and doing therapy. I keep up with empirically based approaches in the field of Psychology/ Psychiatry and integrate new developments into my work. I am licensed in Washington, DC and have a PSYPACT license for video therapy in most states. I look forward to meeting you!
Hello. In my practice I work with clients on relationship issues, anxiety, depression and related difficulties. I am a Clinical Psychologist and have worked at the University my entire career doing clinical research, mentoring, supervising, teaching, training and doing therapy. I keep up with empirically based approaches in the field of Psychology/ Psychiatry and integrate new developments into my work. I am licensed in Washington, DC and have a PSYPACT license for video therapy in most states. I look forward to meeting you!
(202) 868-8575 View (202) 868-8575
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 Carole Stovall, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Carole Stovall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I have been on the EMDR teaching faculty for 14 years, was the spokesperson for NIMH's Anxiety Disorders Education and Depression (DART) Programs, served as a consultant to PBS special "The Brain", provide psychological information to national news programs, newspapers, and magazines.
Do you want a better life with more choices and success- every day? I am honored to work with clients to help them address life issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical illness & pain, relationship and general life issues to better live the life they chose. I work with you in a collaborative and interactive way. We work to help you understand what has happened in your life, but more importantly, how to address and create the meaningful changes, the life success, and happiness, that is most important to you to have your best life.
I have been on the EMDR teaching faculty for 14 years, was the spokesperson for NIMH's Anxiety Disorders Education and Depression (DART) Programs, served as a consultant to PBS special "The Brain", provide psychological information to national news programs, newspapers, and magazines.
Do you want a better life with more choices and success- every day? I am honored to work with clients to help them address life issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical illness & pain, relationship and general life issues to better live the life they chose. I work with you in a collaborative and interactive way. We work to help you understand what has happened in your life, but more importantly, how to address and create the meaningful changes, the life success, and happiness, that is most important to you to have your best life.
(202) 759-2293 View (202) 759-2293
Photo of Rachel Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rachel Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSWC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Emotional suffering, whether from depression, anxiety, grief or harm and betrayal by others, is often invisible. While you may urgently desire help, shame and fear of exposure may make it difficult to get the help you want. In over thirty years of psychotherapy practice, I have learned to help patients find ways to face their worst fears and feel safer. Even desired change can bring fear of losing yourself. I think honestly confronting loss and limitaion can lead to freer decisons about living your life.
Emotional suffering, whether from depression, anxiety, grief or harm and betrayal by others, is often invisible. While you may urgently desire help, shame and fear of exposure may make it difficult to get the help you want. In over thirty years of psychotherapy practice, I have learned to help patients find ways to face their worst fears and feel safer. Even desired change can bring fear of losing yourself. I think honestly confronting loss and limitaion can lead to freer decisons about living your life.
(202) 618-5562 x2 View (202) 618-5562 x2
Photo of Sabrina Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Sabrina Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMHP-S
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Struggling to function at work and at home, meet deadlines, as well as the expectations of relationships, while also experiencing anxiety, depression or substance abuse-whatever the challenge may be-can be hard to explain to friends and family. At times explaining what's happening in our heads actually feels more exhausting than what's really happening and can lead us to isolation and loneliness.
Struggling to function at work and at home, meet deadlines, as well as the expectations of relationships, while also experiencing anxiety, depression or substance abuse-whatever the challenge may be-can be hard to explain to friends and family. At times explaining what's happening in our heads actually feels more exhausting than what's really happening and can lead us to isolation and loneliness.
(912) 217-7224 View (912) 217-7224
Photo of Laelia Gilborn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Laelia Gilborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Adult clients come to me when feeling stuck, anxious or depressed. Others are coping with trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting struggles, or a major life change. Using a variety of approaches, I help clients gain insight and self-acceptance, to navigate life transitions from a position of strength, to grow in relationships, and to make meaning from loss. Therapy is a wonderful form of self-care. Whether you are in crisis or just feeling stuck, I strive to be an honest, accepting, and active partner in your journey to greater fulfillment.
Adult clients come to me when feeling stuck, anxious or depressed. Others are coping with trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting struggles, or a major life change. Using a variety of approaches, I help clients gain insight and self-acceptance, to navigate life transitions from a position of strength, to grow in relationships, and to make meaning from loss. Therapy is a wonderful form of self-care. Whether you are in crisis or just feeling stuck, I strive to be an honest, accepting, and active partner in your journey to greater fulfillment.
(202) 998-4757 View (202) 998-4757
Photo of Washington Anxiety Center of Capitol Hill, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Washington Anxiety Center of Capitol Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS (TELEHEALTH AND IN-PERSON) We work with AGES 4-99 (CHILDREN AND ADULTS) with anxiety disorders (e.g., Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobia, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder), School Refusal, "Failure to Launch" syndrome, Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders (e.g., Skin Picking, Trichotillomania), and depression. We work with those exhibiting behavioral problems (e.g., ADHD, toileting issues). Our ideal client is interested in a collaborative friendly relationship, where we work hard towards achieving therapy goals.
** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS (TELEHEALTH AND IN-PERSON) We work with AGES 4-99 (CHILDREN AND ADULTS) with anxiety disorders (e.g., Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobia, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder), School Refusal, "Failure to Launch" syndrome, Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders (e.g., Skin Picking, Trichotillomania), and depression. We work with those exhibiting behavioral problems (e.g., ADHD, toileting issues). Our ideal client is interested in a collaborative friendly relationship, where we work hard towards achieving therapy goals.
(202) 751-3595 View (202) 751-3595
Photo of Allison Drewno, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Allison Drewno
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, substance use problems, or difficulties related to past traumatic experiences, I would like to help you to improve your quality of life. My gentle, compassionate, nonjudgmental style will enable us to create a therapeutic alliance that feels attuned and engaged. Within the context of this safe, validating relationship you can explore important personal material, increase understanding, grow, and heal.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, substance use problems, or difficulties related to past traumatic experiences, I would like to help you to improve your quality of life. My gentle, compassionate, nonjudgmental style will enable us to create a therapeutic alliance that feels attuned and engaged. Within the context of this safe, validating relationship you can explore important personal material, increase understanding, grow, and heal.
(202) 417-7261 View (202) 417-7261
Photo of Brian J. Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Brian J. Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
Waitlist for new clients
I work with those experiencing anxiety & depression, trauma, dealing with major life decisions & transitions, grief & loss, relationship issues, and those that feel that something is missing and want to know more about their self.
For many people, therapy can provide relief from suffering and give a person a deepened awareness of their life. Therapy can help us gain an active perspective in living a full and meaningful life. Whether one is struggling with depression, anxiety, or interpersonal problems, therapy may be a helpful journey to alleviate the pain. My approach is interpersonal and psychodynamically informed while also exploring concrete solutions. Many people can feel better in a couple sessions and others are looking for a long term process. Both can be helpful.
I work with those experiencing anxiety & depression, trauma, dealing with major life decisions & transitions, grief & loss, relationship issues, and those that feel that something is missing and want to know more about their self.
For many people, therapy can provide relief from suffering and give a person a deepened awareness of their life. Therapy can help us gain an active perspective in living a full and meaningful life. Whether one is struggling with depression, anxiety, or interpersonal problems, therapy may be a helpful journey to alleviate the pain. My approach is interpersonal and psychodynamically informed while also exploring concrete solutions. Many people can feel better in a couple sessions and others are looking for a long term process. Both can be helpful.
(202) 759-6499 View (202) 759-6499
Photo of Dr. Livia Freier, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Livia Freier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Dr. Livia Freier is a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in anxiety and depression, as well as ADHD, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, and couples/marriage conflicts. Additionally, Dr. Freier works with clients who would like to gain a strong sense of self and build self-confidence both long-term and situational. Her practice is open to individuals, couples, and families. Dr. Freier also focuses on working with college students and their families. Her neuroscience research is affiliated with Brown University and her practice is located within close walking distance of the Brown University campus and RISD.
Dr. Livia Freier is a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in anxiety and depression, as well as ADHD, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, and couples/marriage conflicts. Additionally, Dr. Freier works with clients who would like to gain a strong sense of self and build self-confidence both long-term and situational. Her practice is open to individuals, couples, and families. Dr. Freier also focuses on working with college students and their families. Her neuroscience research is affiliated with Brown University and her practice is located within close walking distance of the Brown University campus and RISD.
(401) 340-2630 View (401) 340-2630
Photo of Dr. Candace McCullough: Deaf Counseling Center, Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Candace McCullough: Deaf Counseling Center
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, ACS, BC-THM
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
You may have come here because something is not working in your life and you want it better or because you want more from life. I come with my training, my 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, my many more years of life experience, my mind, good heart and my intention to heal. You come with your issues, your past, perhaps with your anxiety, depression, or guilt. You also come with your strengths, some of which you might not recognize, and upon which we will build. I believe we are equal as humans, just sitting different chairs. I look forward to working with you.
You may have come here because something is not working in your life and you want it better or because you want more from life. I come with my training, my 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, my many more years of life experience, my mind, good heart and my intention to heal. You come with your issues, your past, perhaps with your anxiety, depression, or guilt. You also come with your strengths, some of which you might not recognize, and upon which we will build. I believe we are equal as humans, just sitting different chairs. I look forward to working with you.
(240) 380-2577 View (240) 380-2577
Photo of Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
You may benefit from participating in therapy in many ways: Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals, and values Developing skills for improving your relationships Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures Improving communication and listening skills Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence .
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
(240) 823-5262 View (240) 823-5262
Photo of Maurine K Kelly, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and see many patients up to five times a week with a focus on relationships, intimacy, fears and anxieties, depression, work and parenting issues, and most of all enriching one's life, achieving life goals and a sense of balance in one's life.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and see many patients up to five times a week with a focus on relationships, intimacy, fears and anxieties, depression, work and parenting issues, and most of all enriching one's life, achieving life goals and a sense of balance in one's life.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
(240) 242-9949 View (240) 242-9949
Photo of Jennifer Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Jennifer Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Are you living every day with anxiety, fear, or worry? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by the feeling that you're doing so much, yet it never seems enough? Are you constantly juggling life’s demands but feeling like you are falling short as a partner, parent, or employee? Life might seem like an endless stream of challenges that never lets up, leaving you feeling stuck in the "what if". What if life were different. I have an extensive amount of experience helping clients overcome feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt, trauma, marital issues, family conflict, and struggles with childhood behavioral disorders.
Are you living every day with anxiety, fear, or worry? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by the feeling that you're doing so much, yet it never seems enough? Are you constantly juggling life’s demands but feeling like you are falling short as a partner, parent, or employee? Life might seem like an endless stream of challenges that never lets up, leaving you feeling stuck in the "what if". What if life were different. I have an extensive amount of experience helping clients overcome feelings of depression, anxiety, guilt, trauma, marital issues, family conflict, and struggles with childhood behavioral disorders.
(301) 231-1770 View (301) 231-1770
Photo of Ruth Berkowitz, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ruth Berkowitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of concerns including feeling angry, anxious, depressed, or inhibited. My work also includes helping those who may have less specific symptoms, but notice that they may get in their own way of achieving what they want, interpersonally, professionally, or scholastically. I also have considerable experience working with individuals with a traumatic history, including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Within my practice, I also offer child, adolescent, and adult psychological testing, including emotional, cognitive, and academic assessment.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of concerns including feeling angry, anxious, depressed, or inhibited. My work also includes helping those who may have less specific symptoms, but notice that they may get in their own way of achieving what they want, interpersonally, professionally, or scholastically. I also have considerable experience working with individuals with a traumatic history, including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Within my practice, I also offer child, adolescent, and adult psychological testing, including emotional, cognitive, and academic assessment.
(301) 580-6286 View (301) 580-6286
Photo of Jane Nielson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jane Nielson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Through child psychotherapy and working in conjunction with parents, I have helped children and adolescents develop the skills needed to cope with depression, anxiety, and life's challenges and improve their ability to navigate the complicated years of physical, emotional, academic, and social development.
Maybe you've noticed that it's difficult to get up in the morning or that you are less interested in getting together with family and friends. Perhaps you've noticed destructive patterns in your relationships or that you keep "shooting yourself in the foot" at work. Conversations in therapy deepen understanding of distress and unproductive patterns of behavior. This new understanding and the tools you and I develop together can decrease distress and increase satisfaction with life.
Through child psychotherapy and working in conjunction with parents, I have helped children and adolescents develop the skills needed to cope with depression, anxiety, and life's challenges and improve their ability to navigate the complicated years of physical, emotional, academic, and social development.
Maybe you've noticed that it's difficult to get up in the morning or that you are less interested in getting together with family and friends. Perhaps you've noticed destructive patterns in your relationships or that you keep "shooting yourself in the foot" at work. Conversations in therapy deepen understanding of distress and unproductive patterns of behavior. This new understanding and the tools you and I develop together can decrease distress and increase satisfaction with life.
(301) 852-5307 View (301) 852-5307
Photo of Jacqueline Buarque de Macedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jacqueline Buarque de Macedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination” – Carl Rogers. Are you feeling stuck and lost in a cycle of repetition? Are you unsure how to change your relationship with yourself and others? I am experienced in treating adults, children, and adolescents, who have struggled with a combination of issues. Additionally, I have a special interest in couples therapy and work out of a Gottman and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy perspective. My areas of expertise include trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, and adjustment disorders.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination” – Carl Rogers. Are you feeling stuck and lost in a cycle of repetition? Are you unsure how to change your relationship with yourself and others? I am experienced in treating adults, children, and adolescents, who have struggled with a combination of issues. Additionally, I have a special interest in couples therapy and work out of a Gottman and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy perspective. My areas of expertise include trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, and adjustment disorders.
(703) 440-7619 View (703) 440-7619
Photo of Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
(704) 850-6479 View (704) 850-6479
Photo of Keri Sartin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Keri Sartin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
(202) 519-4927 View (202) 519-4927
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.