Therapists in Morningside, Atlanta, GA

Photo of Shannon Oliver Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Shannon Oliver Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
Through professional experience and my own life, I have worked extensively with relationship issues, career exploration, life transitions, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, high sensitivity, disabilities, and general wellness.
New GROUPS for Women in Mid-Life and those with Chronic Health/Disability concerns! (See Groups Section) I am a Champion of the Human Spirit. How is your spirit? Are you feeling unsatisfied, overwhelmed, weary, confused, anxious, depressed? Maybe it seems like you "have everything" and aren't sure why you don't feel content. Therapy looks a lot like a conversation with a good friend. But the gift is that it's a one-way friendship where it's all about you! You get to talk about whatever you want and I get to listen carefully, affirm and encourage your strengths, and ask questions to help you think more deeply about your concerns.
Through professional experience and my own life, I have worked extensively with relationship issues, career exploration, life transitions, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, high sensitivity, disabilities, and general wellness.
New GROUPS for Women in Mid-Life and those with Chronic Health/Disability concerns! (See Groups Section) I am a Champion of the Human Spirit. How is your spirit? Are you feeling unsatisfied, overwhelmed, weary, confused, anxious, depressed? Maybe it seems like you "have everything" and aren't sure why you don't feel content. Therapy looks a lot like a conversation with a good friend. But the gift is that it's a one-way friendship where it's all about you! You get to talk about whatever you want and I get to listen carefully, affirm and encourage your strengths, and ask questions to help you think more deeply about your concerns.
(404) 531-2145 View (404) 531-2145
Photo of Phyllis Williams, Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Phyllis Williams
Counselor, MSEd, MHC-LP, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
I specialize in anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, grief, trauma, post-natal trauma, familial conflict.
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, grief, trauma, post-natal trauma, familial conflict.
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
(678) 504-6326 View (678) 504-6326
Photo of Dr. Trina Hayslett, Psychologist in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Trina Hayslett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I use evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Mindfulness and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help people with trauma, stress, anxiety and depression.
My goal to to assist people in finding a way forward from their distress and pain. Stressful and/or traumatic events can result in extreme anxiety that leads to isolation from your family and friends and withdrawal from what you used to enjoy. I would like to work with you to decrease that anxiety, increase your engagement with the world and nurture your relationships with others. This is done by teaching you new habits, experiences counter to stressful/trauma ones, and examining how you think about your life.
I use evidence based approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Mindfulness and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help people with trauma, stress, anxiety and depression.
My goal to to assist people in finding a way forward from their distress and pain. Stressful and/or traumatic events can result in extreme anxiety that leads to isolation from your family and friends and withdrawal from what you used to enjoy. I would like to work with you to decrease that anxiety, increase your engagement with the world and nurture your relationships with others. This is done by teaching you new habits, experiences counter to stressful/trauma ones, and examining how you think about your life.
(404) 341-5272 View (404) 341-5272
Photo of Michael D. McAllister, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Michael D. McAllister
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
I have experienced depression and anxiety in my life, and I know the devastating effects they can have on your relationships with yourself and others.
I am a counselor specializing in working with the LGBT community. Are you living in the present moment or always worried about the future or dwelling in the past? Are you a harsh self critic? I choose to see myself as a work in progress that I try not to judge, but to treat with compassionate acceptance. Accepting oneself for who one is...in this present moment, is they key to emotional balance and a fulfilling life. Still, we can strive for our greatest potential by recognizing negative patterns in our lives and seeking change and healthy balance. For more details: www.NowTherapy.com
I have experienced depression and anxiety in my life, and I know the devastating effects they can have on your relationships with yourself and others.
I am a counselor specializing in working with the LGBT community. Are you living in the present moment or always worried about the future or dwelling in the past? Are you a harsh self critic? I choose to see myself as a work in progress that I try not to judge, but to treat with compassionate acceptance. Accepting oneself for who one is...in this present moment, is they key to emotional balance and a fulfilling life. Still, we can strive for our greatest potential by recognizing negative patterns in our lives and seeking change and healthy balance. For more details: www.NowTherapy.com
(404) 994-3373 View (404) 994-3373
Photo of Yvonne A Sailor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Yvonne A Sailor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
Are you feeling stuck, hopeless, Anxious, or depressed? Are you in need of support to help you navigate through life’s storms? I am here to meet you exactly where you are in hopes of working with you to living a more hopeful, fulfilling, and Radiant Life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I currently offer therapy services to individuals, couples, families, children, teens, and groups. As a Christian Therapist I help you overcome your Mental Health Challenges, as well as heal spiritually through the use of Gods Word as well as the use of integrative approaches including mindfulness, acceptance, and cognitive and behavioral principles as well as the humanistic and person-centered approach to ensure that the right skills are used to meet your goals.
Are you feeling stuck, hopeless, Anxious, or depressed? Are you in need of support to help you navigate through life’s storms? I am here to meet you exactly where you are in hopes of working with you to living a more hopeful, fulfilling, and Radiant Life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I currently offer therapy services to individuals, couples, families, children, teens, and groups. As a Christian Therapist I help you overcome your Mental Health Challenges, as well as heal spiritually through the use of Gods Word as well as the use of integrative approaches including mindfulness, acceptance, and cognitive and behavioral principles as well as the humanistic and person-centered approach to ensure that the right skills are used to meet your goals.
(860) 855-3048 View (860) 855-3048
Photo of Qiana Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Qiana Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
My ideal clients have experienced difficulties affecting their quality of life. Trauma, depression, anxiety, hurt, low self worth, are some of the many culprits consistently robbing them of the opportunity to experience an abundant life. Their needs include the opportunity to acknowledge that which has impacted them and causes maladaptive behaviors, process it in a safe place where one can be heard, supported, encouraged, and empowered with truth assisting them in discovering their true identity.
My ideal clients have experienced difficulties affecting their quality of life. Trauma, depression, anxiety, hurt, low self worth, are some of the many culprits consistently robbing them of the opportunity to experience an abundant life. Their needs include the opportunity to acknowledge that which has impacted them and causes maladaptive behaviors, process it in a safe place where one can be heard, supported, encouraged, and empowered with truth assisting them in discovering their true identity.
(762) 213-2736 View (762) 213-2736
Photo of Pierre Hooten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Pierre Hooten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself struggling with overwhelming Depression, and because you identify as LGBTQ+ it seems hard to find a therapist who you can relate to and actually feel comfortable talking to? Individuals tend to seek therapy for depression when they have exhausted their resources and ability to cope. Whether you’re struggling in your relationships, feeling stressed about family life, experiencing mood swings and intrusive thoughts or feeling like giving up. Consider booking a therapy session today. You will learn the skills needed to overcome the feelings of depression and return to your original peace of mind.
Have you found yourself struggling with overwhelming Depression, and because you identify as LGBTQ+ it seems hard to find a therapist who you can relate to and actually feel comfortable talking to? Individuals tend to seek therapy for depression when they have exhausted their resources and ability to cope. Whether you’re struggling in your relationships, feeling stressed about family life, experiencing mood swings and intrusive thoughts or feeling like giving up. Consider booking a therapy session today. You will learn the skills needed to overcome the feelings of depression and return to your original peace of mind.
(404) 999-0767 View (404) 999-0767
Photo of Lily Scivicque, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Lily Scivicque
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
"When we deny our stories, they define us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending." -Brene Brown. Believing these words, I do my best to create a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate space for adult individuals, couples and families to own and process their stories, while finding meaning, healing and growth. We are dynamic people, capable of change and restoration, and it is an honor to facilitate and walk with a person through this process. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic illness, marital concerns, trauma, anger management, international adjustments and transitions, and infertility.
"When we deny our stories, they define us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending." -Brene Brown. Believing these words, I do my best to create a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate space for adult individuals, couples and families to own and process their stories, while finding meaning, healing and growth. We are dynamic people, capable of change and restoration, and it is an honor to facilitate and walk with a person through this process. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic illness, marital concerns, trauma, anger management, international adjustments and transitions, and infertility.
(404) 998-8996 View (404) 998-8996
Photo of Chelsea 'lovewtcs' Ward-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Chelsea 'lovewtcs' Ward-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BBB, NCC
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I have experience with eating disorders, grief, addiction, anger management, depression, anxiety, generalized mental health, relationship concerns, life transitions, career counseling, and more.
Welcome, my name is Chelsea Ward-Smith. I am a licensed professional counselor, BBB instructor, coach, & etc. LoveWTCS gives you courage, the ability to change, and creates a more balanced and healthier life through mindfulness. "The deeper the sorrow is carved within. The more balanced of the mind, body and soul." Once you can see the love around you. You will then see the love within yourself. Your mental health and/or diagnoses do not define you. However, it is a part of you & can be managed by changing your mindset and managing your emotions successfully through coping skills, self awareness of your triggers, and self care.
I have experience with eating disorders, grief, addiction, anger management, depression, anxiety, generalized mental health, relationship concerns, life transitions, career counseling, and more.
Welcome, my name is Chelsea Ward-Smith. I am a licensed professional counselor, BBB instructor, coach, & etc. LoveWTCS gives you courage, the ability to change, and creates a more balanced and healthier life through mindfulness. "The deeper the sorrow is carved within. The more balanced of the mind, body and soul." Once you can see the love around you. You will then see the love within yourself. Your mental health and/or diagnoses do not define you. However, it is a part of you & can be managed by changing your mindset and managing your emotions successfully through coping skills, self awareness of your triggers, and self care.
(770) 525-1229 View (770) 525-1229
Photo of Dorothea E Lotze, Marriage & Family Therapist in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Dorothea E Lotze
Marriage & Family Therapist, ThM, LMFT
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Georgia and journey with individuals age 18 and older. Clients who come to me are going through transitions, seeking to recover from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, find their gender/sexuality identity or have suffered trauma. I specialize working with couples and with survivors of narcissistic abuse. I approach our therapeutic relationship with utmost sensitivity and respect to multi/cross-cultural factors. You can bring your personal values and spirituality and integrate them into our healing work. I am here to support you as you are finding your authentic self.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Georgia and journey with individuals age 18 and older. Clients who come to me are going through transitions, seeking to recover from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, find their gender/sexuality identity or have suffered trauma. I specialize working with couples and with survivors of narcissistic abuse. I approach our therapeutic relationship with utmost sensitivity and respect to multi/cross-cultural factors. You can bring your personal values and spirituality and integrate them into our healing work. I am here to support you as you are finding your authentic self.
(404) 609-0596 View (404) 609-0596
Photo of Solange H Toure, Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Solange H Toure
Counselor, MS, BA
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
Hi there! I have experience providing counseling for adults with anxiety, depression, life transitions, suicide ideation, increasing self-image, trauma, relationship issues and grief. I have a passion for supporting individuals by helping to identify their personal strengths and positive qualities. I encourage clients to express their feelings, express their needs and be their true selves!
Hi there! I have experience providing counseling for adults with anxiety, depression, life transitions, suicide ideation, increasing self-image, trauma, relationship issues and grief. I have a passion for supporting individuals by helping to identify their personal strengths and positive qualities. I encourage clients to express their feelings, express their needs and be their true selves!
(470) 613-2652 View (470) 613-2652
Photo of Shannon Sarkar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Shannon Sarkar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
Trauma has an undeniable effect on people’s lives that can shape core beliefs about self, relationships, and feeling safe in the world. Seeking out therapy is truly an act of bravery and trust, and I take that trust very seriously. Whatever you have been through, I strive to cultivate a space where you can feel safe with vulnerability. My goal is to help you find the awareness, healing, and resiliency that we all need and deserve.
Trauma has an undeniable effect on people’s lives that can shape core beliefs about self, relationships, and feeling safe in the world. Seeking out therapy is truly an act of bravery and trust, and I take that trust very seriously. Whatever you have been through, I strive to cultivate a space where you can feel safe with vulnerability. My goal is to help you find the awareness, healing, and resiliency that we all need and deserve.
(404) 400-3509 View (404) 400-3509
Photo of Moving Mountains Coaching in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Moving Mountains Coaching
MS, MA, ACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
My ideal client is looking for help and support in making themselves a priority and working towards creating a life filled with greater peace, self confidence and self love. My clients are looking to move past fear, overthinking, trauma, anxiety, and ptsd in order to achieve more of what they want most out of life. They are looking to move past prior crisis and trauma in different areas of their lives from health struggles, to family trauma and relationships. They want more out of life and are ready to get out of their own way. They want someone to help them understand their obstacles and develop a clear path toward their solutions
My ideal client is looking for help and support in making themselves a priority and working towards creating a life filled with greater peace, self confidence and self love. My clients are looking to move past fear, overthinking, trauma, anxiety, and ptsd in order to achieve more of what they want most out of life. They are looking to move past prior crisis and trauma in different areas of their lives from health struggles, to family trauma and relationships. They want more out of life and are ready to get out of their own way. They want someone to help them understand their obstacles and develop a clear path toward their solutions
(520) 231-7095 View (520) 231-7095
Photo of Dr. Jane Yang, Psychologist in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Jane Yang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience, primarily in higher education settings. My practice focuses on working with diverse people who are navigating life transitions and demands, particularly those connected to their identity and sense of self. I believe each of us is shaped through our life experiences, both positive and painful. Therapy is an opportunity to explore these experiences, especially if you are feeling unfulfilled or questioning your life’s purpose and meaning. While this process can be difficult, it can also lead to tremendous clarity, insight, and even joy!
I am a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience, primarily in higher education settings. My practice focuses on working with diverse people who are navigating life transitions and demands, particularly those connected to their identity and sense of self. I believe each of us is shaped through our life experiences, both positive and painful. Therapy is an opportunity to explore these experiences, especially if you are feeling unfulfilled or questioning your life’s purpose and meaning. While this process can be difficult, it can also lead to tremendous clarity, insight, and even joy!
(678) 284-2420 View (678) 284-2420
Photo of Kate Rayfield, Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Kate Rayfield
Counselor, MA, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
I have always loved to read a good story, I think stories can reflect wholeness in their beginnings, middles, and ends. It's all too often that we find ourselves in the middle of the story, feeling disconnected from ourselves and unsure if our story will ever have an ending that feels good and whole. I believe that counseling offers a space to "speak the unspeakable" parts of our stories and invite healing into the darkest places. As we create a safe and trusting relationship, I hope to come alongside you and look inward together with compassion and curiosity.
I have always loved to read a good story, I think stories can reflect wholeness in their beginnings, middles, and ends. It's all too often that we find ourselves in the middle of the story, feeling disconnected from ourselves and unsure if our story will ever have an ending that feels good and whole. I believe that counseling offers a space to "speak the unspeakable" parts of our stories and invite healing into the darkest places. As we create a safe and trusting relationship, I hope to come alongside you and look inward together with compassion and curiosity.
(404) 800-4175 View (404) 800-4175
Photo of Miriam Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Miriam Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
First, I'd like to say that there is strength in reaching out for support! My clients are diverse and have unique backgrounds and challenges. Many of my clients are young to middle-aged adult women, whom I've greatly enjoyed working with. Though many of our challenges may be interconnected, my work with clients mostly focuses on empowerment, self-compassion, and confidence. My clients are AMAZED by how their focus on increasing self-love, positively reverberates in every aspect of their lives. My clients appreciate my organized yet flexible style and are comforted that our work together is a solution-focused, safe collaboration!
First, I'd like to say that there is strength in reaching out for support! My clients are diverse and have unique backgrounds and challenges. Many of my clients are young to middle-aged adult women, whom I've greatly enjoyed working with. Though many of our challenges may be interconnected, my work with clients mostly focuses on empowerment, self-compassion, and confidence. My clients are AMAZED by how their focus on increasing self-love, positively reverberates in every aspect of their lives. My clients appreciate my organized yet flexible style and are comforted that our work together is a solution-focused, safe collaboration!
(757) 699-4377 View (757) 699-4377
Photo of Sharon A Nix, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Sharon A Nix
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
When will the worry end? It seems you just can’t get out of your head. You thought that you had it all together, but the more life throws at you the more disconnected you seem to become. The worry has intensified; you feel like you’re falling apart. You seem more distracted and less focused. You’re no longer certain of yourself-and self-confidence seems to be waning. You no longer like who you’ve become and yearn for that person you once were
When will the worry end? It seems you just can’t get out of your head. You thought that you had it all together, but the more life throws at you the more disconnected you seem to become. The worry has intensified; you feel like you’re falling apart. You seem more distracted and less focused. You’re no longer certain of yourself-and self-confidence seems to be waning. You no longer like who you’ve become and yearn for that person you once were
(770) 685-6204 View (770) 685-6204
Photo of Ashley Ludwinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Ashley Ludwinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
I am a trauma-informed provider who supports couples and individuals navigating grief/loss, conflict, trauma and transition. I am passionate about supporting folks identifying with neurodiversity (eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", questioning, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your values and strengths, and pursue healing and growth.
I am a trauma-informed provider who supports couples and individuals navigating grief/loss, conflict, trauma and transition. I am passionate about supporting folks identifying with neurodiversity (eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", questioning, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your values and strengths, and pursue healing and growth.
(404) 531-7403 View (404) 531-7403
Photo of Cindy Hopper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Cindy Hopper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306
In my counseling practice, I prioritize creating a safe, empathic, and non-judgmental space for healing. By fostering such an environment, I believe clients feel safe to explore and tap into their inherent potential for leading meaningful lives. Having studied Ayurvedic wellness at the Tanman Ayurvedic Research Centre in India, I take a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, emotion, and spirit. I blend this with evidence-based Western practices to comprehensively support my clients. This integration leads to mental wellness and growth.
In my counseling practice, I prioritize creating a safe, empathic, and non-judgmental space for healing. By fostering such an environment, I believe clients feel safe to explore and tap into their inherent potential for leading meaningful lives. Having studied Ayurvedic wellness at the Tanman Ayurvedic Research Centre in India, I take a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, emotion, and spirit. I blend this with evidence-based Western practices to comprehensively support my clients. This integration leads to mental wellness and growth.
(470) 444-4732 View (470) 444-4732
Photo of Edward Burke Addison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morningside, Atlanta, GA
Edward Burke Addison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Morningside, Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
I work well with the client who genuinely wants to seek out counseling in order to find answers, solutions, or different perspectives to their struggles. Client success comes from being vulnerable, admitting and recognizing flaws, a desire to improve and become better, and an openness to being challenged. People come to counseling for a myriad or reasons including grief, unhappiness with life circumstances, feeling lost, lack of motivation, lack of purpose, and any other major life event causing turmoil. Through a trusted and trained adult in the therapeutic journey, clients will discover the neglected areas of their lives.
I work well with the client who genuinely wants to seek out counseling in order to find answers, solutions, or different perspectives to their struggles. Client success comes from being vulnerable, admitting and recognizing flaws, a desire to improve and become better, and an openness to being challenged. People come to counseling for a myriad or reasons including grief, unhappiness with life circumstances, feeling lost, lack of motivation, lack of purpose, and any other major life event causing turmoil. Through a trusted and trained adult in the therapeutic journey, clients will discover the neglected areas of their lives.
(470) 441-4630 View (470) 441-4630

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.