Depression Therapists in Clearwater, FL

Photo of Vianey S. Pelaez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Vianey S. Pelaez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33765  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating a broad range of issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger management, life transitions, relational conflict, and work/life balance.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. There are a number of reasons that can hold someone from moving forward. That said, if you feel ready to begin a therapeutic relationship, you have taken one step towards healing. As a therapist, I work in collaboration with clients in a goal-oriented way to explore, understand, and help manage various challenges. For example, a major life change or day-to-day stress. I provide an environment that fosters a safe space for open communication to promote growth and wellbeing.
I specialize in treating a broad range of issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger management, life transitions, relational conflict, and work/life balance.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. There are a number of reasons that can hold someone from moving forward. That said, if you feel ready to begin a therapeutic relationship, you have taken one step towards healing. As a therapist, I work in collaboration with clients in a goal-oriented way to explore, understand, and help manage various challenges. For example, a major life change or day-to-day stress. I provide an environment that fosters a safe space for open communication to promote growth and wellbeing.
(727) 270-8456 View (727) 270-8456
Photo of Amanda Sciarrotta-Farell, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Amanda Sciarrotta-Farell
Counselor, LMHC, CCHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, or feeling stuck in your current journey through life, please reach out so we may connect to determine what next steps are needed to make a change.
Therapy is a process that is unique to each individual. I take the time to meet clients where they are in life to empower them to take control, become more mindful, and improve daily functioning when it comes to interpersonal relationships, work, and overall well-being. I received my Master of Arts degree from the University of South Florida. As a licensed mental health counselor I have gained experience working with adults, children, and families in the community for over 10 years. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to encourage clients to become more mindful of the link between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, changes in mood, or feeling stuck in your current journey through life, please reach out so we may connect to determine what next steps are needed to make a change.
Therapy is a process that is unique to each individual. I take the time to meet clients where they are in life to empower them to take control, become more mindful, and improve daily functioning when it comes to interpersonal relationships, work, and overall well-being. I received my Master of Arts degree from the University of South Florida. As a licensed mental health counselor I have gained experience working with adults, children, and families in the community for over 10 years. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to encourage clients to become more mindful of the link between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
(727) 496-3954 View (727) 496-3954
Photo of Kimberly J Tucker, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Kimberly J Tucker
Counselor, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33765
I have training and experience in helping people to overcome traumatic experiences, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
You're always there for those in your life who depend on you; children, partner, friends, co-workers, but you can't find the time to take care of yourself. Sometimes the stressors of life can feel like too much to manage alone. Maybe your past has been too hard to forget. The expectations placed on you are overwhelming or unmanageable. If you are struggling to keep it all going, I offer a safe space in my office for you to sit back, take a deep breath, and refocus. I want you to bring all of your emotional "stuff" to my office and we will sort through it together. Leave it all behind so you can finally make yourself a priority.
I have training and experience in helping people to overcome traumatic experiences, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
You're always there for those in your life who depend on you; children, partner, friends, co-workers, but you can't find the time to take care of yourself. Sometimes the stressors of life can feel like too much to manage alone. Maybe your past has been too hard to forget. The expectations placed on you are overwhelming or unmanageable. If you are struggling to keep it all going, I offer a safe space in my office for you to sit back, take a deep breath, and refocus. I want you to bring all of your emotional "stuff" to my office and we will sort through it together. Leave it all behind so you can finally make yourself a priority.
(727) 800-4466 View (727) 800-4466
Photo of Sarah Geiger-Fessahaye, Pre-Licensed Professional in Clearwater, FL
Sarah Geiger-Fessahaye
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI, EMDR
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759
I have experience working with children, teens, adults and families, working on issues such as: Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, behavioral issues, and trauma related issues such as: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I like to work with clients in a collaborative way while helping the client find their inner strengths and using their expert knowledge when working through issues. I use modalities such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused therapy.
I have experience working with children, teens, adults and families, working on issues such as: Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, behavioral issues, and trauma related issues such as: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I like to work with clients in a collaborative way while helping the client find their inner strengths and using their expert knowledge when working through issues. I use modalities such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused therapy.
(727) 966-2492 View (727) 966-2492
Photo of Marina Skane, Marriage & Family Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Marina Skane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756
Waitlist for new clients
Let’s address your personal distress and get you to living your best life! We will address your emotional turmoil, rough patches in your life, relationship difficulties, marital distress, high functioning autism, difficulties fitting into to society, and mood disorders. Marina has experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and relationship difficulties for many years. Marina has lived in more than one country and has personal experience in adjusting to western and eastern cultures.
Let’s address your personal distress and get you to living your best life! We will address your emotional turmoil, rough patches in your life, relationship difficulties, marital distress, high functioning autism, difficulties fitting into to society, and mood disorders. Marina has experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and relationship difficulties for many years. Marina has lived in more than one country and has personal experience in adjusting to western and eastern cultures.
(727) 287-5303 View (727) 287-5303
Photo of Jennifer M. Mazur, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Jennifer M. Mazur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression or overwhelmed by life? Is past trauma impacting you or maybe you've experienced a loss or family conflict? It can be difficult to manage these feelings, but you don't have to face them alone. Talking to someone may be the first step in your journey to help you heal. We can work together to help uncover your own strengths and find your natural coping skills. You will be able to meet life's challenges, and feel healthy and at peace.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression or overwhelmed by life? Is past trauma impacting you or maybe you've experienced a loss or family conflict? It can be difficult to manage these feelings, but you don't have to face them alone. Talking to someone may be the first step in your journey to help you heal. We can work together to help uncover your own strengths and find your natural coping skills. You will be able to meet life's challenges, and feel healthy and at peace.
(727) 334-8345 View (727) 334-8345
Photo of Sai N Marakani, Mental Health Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Sai N Marakani
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759  (Online Only)
My clients may be grappling with a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, or navigating life transitions. They might be seeking guidance and support in overcoming past traumas, managing stress, or coping with grief and loss. Whatever their specific struggles, my goal is to provide them with the tools, insights, and empowerment they need to navigate their challenges and find healing. Ultimately, my clients seek therapy because they have a genuine desire for personal growth and transformation. They understand that therapy can serve as a catalyst for positive change.
My clients may be grappling with a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, or navigating life transitions. They might be seeking guidance and support in overcoming past traumas, managing stress, or coping with grief and loss. Whatever their specific struggles, my goal is to provide them with the tools, insights, and empowerment they need to navigate their challenges and find healing. Ultimately, my clients seek therapy because they have a genuine desire for personal growth and transformation. They understand that therapy can serve as a catalyst for positive change.
(317) 204-8146 View (317) 204-8146
Photo of Keri Jakubowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Keri Jakubowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC , LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33762
I have extensive knowledge and skills in working with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems and addiction.
As a trained clinical therapist with years of practice and supervision, my approach has a Person Centered focus based on an individual‘s unique characteristics, goals and principles. I can help people effectively manage difficulties in life and most mental health issues. I firmly believe that everyone is able to change if they want to change. We all go through times during life when we feel stuck or not sure of what we want and that’s okay. With the proper guidance and support therapy can help you make many changes, face any challenges you have and empower you to make what you want for yourself and your life.
I have extensive knowledge and skills in working with individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems and addiction.
As a trained clinical therapist with years of practice and supervision, my approach has a Person Centered focus based on an individual‘s unique characteristics, goals and principles. I can help people effectively manage difficulties in life and most mental health issues. I firmly believe that everyone is able to change if they want to change. We all go through times during life when we feel stuck or not sure of what we want and that’s okay. With the proper guidance and support therapy can help you make many changes, face any challenges you have and empower you to make what you want for yourself and your life.
(727) 261-2427 View (727) 261-2427
Photo of Racine Alequin, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Racine Alequin
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, NCC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33761
Want to feel better, more in control, and enjoy life again? Struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed by daily life? Drinking too much or battling other addictions? I am here to help. I am an empathetic, highly trained counselor with 12 years of experience. Therapy gives you a safe place to explore your thoughts and behaviors with a trained, non-judgment professional. I help you learn strategies so you can better deal with your challenges, set goals, and gain new perspectives to lead you to a happier, more fulfilling and productive life. Tried therapy before? Not with me! I help you get results!
Want to feel better, more in control, and enjoy life again? Struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed by daily life? Drinking too much or battling other addictions? I am here to help. I am an empathetic, highly trained counselor with 12 years of experience. Therapy gives you a safe place to explore your thoughts and behaviors with a trained, non-judgment professional. I help you learn strategies so you can better deal with your challenges, set goals, and gain new perspectives to lead you to a happier, more fulfilling and productive life. Tried therapy before? Not with me! I help you get results!
(727) 594-6186 View (727) 594-6186
Photo of Shay Roop, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Shay Roop
Counselor, RdN, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756
Being a therapist, RN, wife and mother I bring knowledge and varied experiences to my therapy. My specialties are relationships, sexuality, depression, anxiety, and marital issues. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist who can offer differing treatment techniques and strategies for various problems.
Being a therapist, RN, wife and mother I bring knowledge and varied experiences to my therapy. My specialties are relationships, sexuality, depression, anxiety, and marital issues. I am also a clinical hypnotherapist who can offer differing treatment techniques and strategies for various problems.
(727) 732-4101 View (727) 732-4101
Photo of Julia Coley Lmhc, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Julia Coley Lmhc
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
I have years of experience working with adults, teens and children experiencing anxiety, depression, school related issues, ADHD, relationship issues, grief and trauma.
Are you feeling worried all the time? Do you feel sad or that you have no energy to get through the day? Perhaps you are stuck at a crossroads during a big life transition, or questioning your relationship. I help people whose anxiety takes over in the worst possible moments. Whose sadness stops them from enjoying their lives and those who need guidance and support to take the next steps in their lives.
I have years of experience working with adults, teens and children experiencing anxiety, depression, school related issues, ADHD, relationship issues, grief and trauma.
Are you feeling worried all the time? Do you feel sad or that you have no energy to get through the day? Perhaps you are stuck at a crossroads during a big life transition, or questioning your relationship. I help people whose anxiety takes over in the worst possible moments. Whose sadness stops them from enjoying their lives and those who need guidance and support to take the next steps in their lives.
(727) 477-8425 View (727) 477-8425
Photo of Jodi B Porter, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Clearwater, FL
Jodi B Porter
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI, MSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756  (Online Only)
I have a diverse area of focus which includes trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, difficult life adjustments / transitions and many other mental health diagnoses.
I am a RCSWI in Florida and a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of New York. I have been working in the mental health field since 2010 and have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, including residential programs, inpatient settings, private practice, and community mental health agencies. This has allowed me to gain experience and learn how best to support my clients depending on the needs of the individual. I have experience working with diverse populations and pride myself on being culturally competent.
I have a diverse area of focus which includes trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, difficult life adjustments / transitions and many other mental health diagnoses.
I am a RCSWI in Florida and a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of New York. I have been working in the mental health field since 2010 and have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, including residential programs, inpatient settings, private practice, and community mental health agencies. This has allowed me to gain experience and learn how best to support my clients depending on the needs of the individual. I have experience working with diverse populations and pride myself on being culturally competent.
(727) 607-3335 View (727) 607-3335
Photo of Wellness With Kashi, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Wellness With Kashi
Counselor, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
My ideal client is ready and motivated for a new way of living. They may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, food-related issues, work stress, grief, lack of purpose, burn out, or overall unhappiness without knowing why. My clients want to feel better, happier, and more balanced. They are tired of struggling and ready to find a fresh path. My clients want to feel heard and seen, exactly as they are, without judgment. My clients long for inner-peace and to feel joy inside, sometimes for the first time ever or in a very long time.
My ideal client is ready and motivated for a new way of living. They may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, food-related issues, work stress, grief, lack of purpose, burn out, or overall unhappiness without knowing why. My clients want to feel better, happier, and more balanced. They are tired of struggling and ready to find a fresh path. My clients want to feel heard and seen, exactly as they are, without judgment. My clients long for inner-peace and to feel joy inside, sometimes for the first time ever or in a very long time.
(727) 240-2478 View (727) 240-2478
Photo of Loredana Repetto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Loredana Repetto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33761
Maintaining an integrative approach, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, EMDR and Self Regulation techniques modalities in my therapeutic practice. My specialties are Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Sexual Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I believe that while it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to implement the most effective evidence base protocols, the primary focus of my work is to create a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients, with whom I adopt a collaborative approach in order to tailor a treatment plan based on their needs and their cultural background.
Maintaining an integrative approach, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, EMDR and Self Regulation techniques modalities in my therapeutic practice. My specialties are Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Sexual Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I believe that while it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to implement the most effective evidence base protocols, the primary focus of my work is to create a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients, with whom I adopt a collaborative approach in order to tailor a treatment plan based on their needs and their cultural background.
(727) 619-1542 View (727) 619-1542
Photo of Sheila Marie Nugent, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Sheila Marie Nugent
Counselor, LMHC , LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and substance abuse issues; I work with individuals and families seeking recovery; I help people who want to improve their relationships at home and at work; people who want their lives to change for the better.
What is keeping you from living the life you want? Therapy can be a powerful tool to identify goals and remove obstacles that may be preventing you from experiencing a more fulfilling life. Are you are experiencing depression, anxiety or abusing substances? The process of therapy can be a useful way to discover how to create change. By exploring current and historical patterns, you can develop an awareness and understanding of maladaptive coping mechanisms. You can change your life by changing yourself. I am here to help you accomplish your goals.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and substance abuse issues; I work with individuals and families seeking recovery; I help people who want to improve their relationships at home and at work; people who want their lives to change for the better.
What is keeping you from living the life you want? Therapy can be a powerful tool to identify goals and remove obstacles that may be preventing you from experiencing a more fulfilling life. Are you are experiencing depression, anxiety or abusing substances? The process of therapy can be a useful way to discover how to create change. By exploring current and historical patterns, you can develop an awareness and understanding of maladaptive coping mechanisms. You can change your life by changing yourself. I am here to help you accomplish your goals.
(727) 240-3515 View (727) 240-3515
Photo of William McCormack, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
William McCormack
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Would you like to change the way you think and view the current situation? There is hope for the future and you have many options to get well. By establishing goals and achieving them, you can regain the confidence to live a better life. I can teach you coping skills to handle difficult problems that happens in life. You can start feeling better by working on those difficult issues today.
Are you feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Would you like to change the way you think and view the current situation? There is hope for the future and you have many options to get well. By establishing goals and achieving them, you can regain the confidence to live a better life. I can teach you coping skills to handle difficult problems that happens in life. You can start feeling better by working on those difficult issues today.
(727) 275-2684 View (727) 275-2684
Photo of Sabrina Martin, Psychologist in Clearwater, FL
Sabrina Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
Today many people are struggling with increased stress, depression, and anxiety due to the COVID virus coupled with any other stressors they had before. Most people are looking to make some changes in their life. If you find it difficult to concentrate, make decisions, or motivate yourself it may be time to talk to someone. If you are taking medications for mental health, it is always a great idea to participate in therapy for long-term coping skills. If you are a veteran and in need of a private evaluator for Compensation and Pension disability claims, I have extensive experience conducting these types of evaluations.
Today many people are struggling with increased stress, depression, and anxiety due to the COVID virus coupled with any other stressors they had before. Most people are looking to make some changes in their life. If you find it difficult to concentrate, make decisions, or motivate yourself it may be time to talk to someone. If you are taking medications for mental health, it is always a great idea to participate in therapy for long-term coping skills. If you are a veteran and in need of a private evaluator for Compensation and Pension disability claims, I have extensive experience conducting these types of evaluations.
(727) 306-9343 View (727) 306-9343
Photo of Samantha Amabile, Pre-Licensed Professional in Clearwater, FL
Samantha Amabile
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759
We all experience challenging circumstances, but sometimes those experiences or circumstances can throw us off course and cause chaos in our lives. Those experiences or circumstances can leave us feeling immense emotional pain or confusion. It’s not uncommon to develop symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD. I am trained in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization reprocessing) to help individuals work through the emotional memories that may be affecting thoughts and behaviors today. Everybody makes sense in the context of their own story. I’m here to listen to your story and support you along your journey.
We all experience challenging circumstances, but sometimes those experiences or circumstances can throw us off course and cause chaos in our lives. Those experiences or circumstances can leave us feeling immense emotional pain or confusion. It’s not uncommon to develop symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD. I am trained in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization reprocessing) to help individuals work through the emotional memories that may be affecting thoughts and behaviors today. Everybody makes sense in the context of their own story. I’m here to listen to your story and support you along your journey.
(727) 477-8702 View (727) 477-8702
Photo of Amy Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Amy Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755  (Online Only)
Do you feel anxious or depressed about the future & overwhelmed by the stress and conflict in our world today? You are not alone. If you're sensitive, take care of others, avoid conflict and feel unappreciated, it may be hard to set boundaries and listen to your own needs. This isn't selfish. It's an essential skill you need to achieve goals, navigate through life's challenges, improve relationships and most of all, experience more happiness and wellbeing, which you deserve. If you're avoiding life and numbing out on food, alcohol or binge watching, you deserve to get support, feel seen, heard, and know you matter. Because you DO!
Do you feel anxious or depressed about the future & overwhelmed by the stress and conflict in our world today? You are not alone. If you're sensitive, take care of others, avoid conflict and feel unappreciated, it may be hard to set boundaries and listen to your own needs. This isn't selfish. It's an essential skill you need to achieve goals, navigate through life's challenges, improve relationships and most of all, experience more happiness and wellbeing, which you deserve. If you're avoiding life and numbing out on food, alcohol or binge watching, you deserve to get support, feel seen, heard, and know you matter. Because you DO!
(813) 536-4139 View (813) 536-4139
Photo of Elaine Sandra Berman, Psychologist in Clearwater, FL
Elaine Sandra Berman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33761
While I use a variety of strategies, if you are interested in hypnosis, as a certified teacher in ASCH I use hypnosis to treat weight loss, eating disorders, pain management, anxiety, performance enhancement, depression, self esteem, grief, phobias and SPORTS PERFORMANCE enhancement.
For over 20 years I have counseled individuals, couples, and families in solving problems that have been emotionally and sometimes also physically painful. My psychological tools with children, adolescents, adults and senior citizens have been developed over many years to choose the therapy strategy that fits the person and their problems. I may use cognitive behavioral, hypnotic, or another therapeutic approach depending on what is needed for you. My supportive and positive attitude in additional in addition to my years of experience can enable you to have the quality of life you seek.
While I use a variety of strategies, if you are interested in hypnosis, as a certified teacher in ASCH I use hypnosis to treat weight loss, eating disorders, pain management, anxiety, performance enhancement, depression, self esteem, grief, phobias and SPORTS PERFORMANCE enhancement.
For over 20 years I have counseled individuals, couples, and families in solving problems that have been emotionally and sometimes also physically painful. My psychological tools with children, adolescents, adults and senior citizens have been developed over many years to choose the therapy strategy that fits the person and their problems. I may use cognitive behavioral, hypnotic, or another therapeutic approach depending on what is needed for you. My supportive and positive attitude in additional in addition to my years of experience can enable you to have the quality of life you seek.
(727) 280-5938 View (727) 280-5938
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.