Photo of Donna Young, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
Donna Young is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia with over 20 years of experience assisting adolescents, teens, young adults, and families with managing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and adjusting to life.
Donna Young is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia with over 20 years of experience assisting adolescents, teens, young adults, and families with managing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and adjusting to life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Lila Ewin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lila Ewin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30349  (Online Only)
I have experience with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, self-esteem, relationships, family conflict, everyday stressors, and more.
Mental health is essential in our everyday life. If you’ve been dealing with everyday stressors, depression, or anxiety it’s important to process and deal with these obstacles for balance life and mental health stability. My focus consists of assisting my clients with identifying their ability to learning how to implement healthy coping skills, develop confidence, and much more. I put emphasis on an effective recovery process, which consists of focusing on the client future rather than their past. It’s important to assist the client with understanding the problem but focusing more on their recovery results.
I have experience with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, self-esteem, relationships, family conflict, everyday stressors, and more.
Mental health is essential in our everyday life. If you’ve been dealing with everyday stressors, depression, or anxiety it’s important to process and deal with these obstacles for balance life and mental health stability. My focus consists of assisting my clients with identifying their ability to learning how to implement healthy coping skills, develop confidence, and much more. I put emphasis on an effective recovery process, which consists of focusing on the client future rather than their past. It’s important to assist the client with understanding the problem but focusing more on their recovery results.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Tanya Eden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Eden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a compassionate ally on your journey towards healing and self-discovery? Look no further. I'm Tanya, a licensed Clinical Therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through their unique paths to wellness. With a collaborative, empowering, and supportive approach to therapy, I specialize in working with adults and adolescents facing relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic pursuits and recovering from trauma. My therapeutic toolkit is diverse and adaptable, allowing me to tailor interventions to meet your specific needs and goals. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I integrate psycho
Are you seeking a compassionate ally on your journey towards healing and self-discovery? Look no further. I'm Tanya, a licensed Clinical Therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through their unique paths to wellness. With a collaborative, empowering, and supportive approach to therapy, I specialize in working with adults and adolescents facing relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic pursuits and recovering from trauma. My therapeutic toolkit is diverse and adaptable, allowing me to tailor interventions to meet your specific needs and goals. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I integrate psycho
(470) 516-3910 View (470) 516-3910
Photo of Julia Walker-Sandoval, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Walker-Sandoval
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316
I am a licensed professional counselor with ten years of experience in various counseling techniques, such as Individual, group, couples, and family therapy. I focus on anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, and Grief. I utilize theoretical approaches: Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Therapy, Solution-Focused, Client-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Grief Therapy, and Positive Psychology. I genuinely believe therapy requires courage to embrace, understand, and confront life’s difficulties.
I am a licensed professional counselor with ten years of experience in various counseling techniques, such as Individual, group, couples, and family therapy. I focus on anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, and Grief. I utilize theoretical approaches: Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Therapy, Solution-Focused, Client-Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Grief Therapy, and Positive Psychology. I genuinely believe therapy requires courage to embrace, understand, and confront life’s difficulties.
(470) 745-3208 View (470) 745-3208
Photo of Brett I Rozen, MS, Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brett I Rozen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
I specialize in issues ranging from depression, self-esteem, body image issues, anxiety, loss, relationship, and attachment problems to sex therapy, including sex addiction.
In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere (both in office and online with Video Counseling) I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. I work to help them attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a caring and compassionate professional and, provide counseling to adolescents, adults, and couples. My practice welcomes ALL people in an affirming environment. I work frequently with couples, helping them get unstuck from unhealthy behavior "patterns"; allowing them to find their way back to each other. **VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE.**
I specialize in issues ranging from depression, self-esteem, body image issues, anxiety, loss, relationship, and attachment problems to sex therapy, including sex addiction.
In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere (both in office and online with Video Counseling) I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. I work to help them attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a caring and compassionate professional and, provide counseling to adolescents, adults, and couples. My practice welcomes ALL people in an affirming environment. I work frequently with couples, helping them get unstuck from unhealthy behavior "patterns"; allowing them to find their way back to each other. **VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE.**
(404) 566-5130 View (404) 566-5130
Photo of Michael Fountain, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Fountain
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
Other clinical practice include clinical issues of addictions, grief and loss, depression problems, oppositional and defiant issues for children, homelessness, spiritual connectedness, leadership development, stress management, LBGQT issues and trauma that impact the growth, development and potential that impedes one's personal growth.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Michael received a Community Counseling Masters degree in Psychology from Argosy University in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael also holds a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Human Services and an Associates of Science Degree in Business from Shorter University in Atlanta. Georgia. Michael presents as a seasoned Licensed Therapist that has worked in a lot of community-based settings and roles. He has worked in inpatient hospitals in social work for a number of years.
Other clinical practice include clinical issues of addictions, grief and loss, depression problems, oppositional and defiant issues for children, homelessness, spiritual connectedness, leadership development, stress management, LBGQT issues and trauma that impact the growth, development and potential that impedes one's personal growth.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Michael received a Community Counseling Masters degree in Psychology from Argosy University in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael also holds a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Human Services and an Associates of Science Degree in Business from Shorter University in Atlanta. Georgia. Michael presents as a seasoned Licensed Therapist that has worked in a lot of community-based settings and roles. He has worked in inpatient hospitals in social work for a number of years.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Shontanae Green, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shontanae Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating stress management, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel stressed, lost, or overwhelmed by the ever-present demands of life? I believe that achieving alignment with our life path and balance leads us to mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families to help them achieve balance and to help them reach their highest potential.
I specialize in treating stress management, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel stressed, lost, or overwhelmed by the ever-present demands of life? I believe that achieving alignment with our life path and balance leads us to mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families to help them achieve balance and to help them reach their highest potential.
(404) 974-3351 View (404) 974-3351
Photo of Kelley Brown, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelley Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Kelley Brown and I'm a national board licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 15+ years of experience helping individuals achieve optimum wellness. My theoretical approaches are grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Center, Trauma, Gestalt, and Gothman Therapy. I am also certified in Anger Management. I work with and am most comfortable with individuals, couples, marriages, teens, and adults who are dealing with grief, trauma, life stressors/adjustments, relationships, esteem, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, my name is Kelley Brown and I'm a national board licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 15+ years of experience helping individuals achieve optimum wellness. My theoretical approaches are grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Center, Trauma, Gestalt, and Gothman Therapy. I am also certified in Anger Management. I work with and am most comfortable with individuals, couples, marriages, teens, and adults who are dealing with grief, trauma, life stressors/adjustments, relationships, esteem, anxiety, and depression.
(470) 928-6754 View (470) 928-6754
Photo of Suzanne Imes, PhD, Psychologist
Suzanne Imes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with issues related to depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, relationships, achievement and success, chronic illness, transitions, early attachment problems, self-esteem, addictions, betrayal, and general problems in living. I focus on self-acceptance and growth rather than on pathology and "change." I believe we are all in this together; I take the journey with my clients rather than thinking I know what is best for them. I think questions are often more important than answers. My motto is: Less judgment, more curiosity.
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with issues related to depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, relationships, achievement and success, chronic illness, transitions, early attachment problems, self-esteem, addictions, betrayal, and general problems in living. I focus on self-acceptance and growth rather than on pathology and "change." I believe we are all in this together; I take the journey with my clients rather than thinking I know what is best for them. I think questions are often more important than answers. My motto is: Less judgment, more curiosity.
(404) 369-2493 x23 View (404) 369-2493 x23
Photo of Robert Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt as if something were holding you back from becoming your best self? Many people have an area of their lives they wish to improve upon such as gaining more confidence, having more successful personal relationships, feeling more motivated, or exercising control over a habit. Sometimes feelings of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, or substance abuse can get the better of you and make attaining personal goals difficult. Fortunately there are proven solutions to help. I have 24 years of experience working with clients of all severity levels treating these conditions as well as other mental health diagnoses.
Have you ever felt as if something were holding you back from becoming your best self? Many people have an area of their lives they wish to improve upon such as gaining more confidence, having more successful personal relationships, feeling more motivated, or exercising control over a habit. Sometimes feelings of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, or substance abuse can get the better of you and make attaining personal goals difficult. Fortunately there are proven solutions to help. I have 24 years of experience working with clients of all severity levels treating these conditions as well as other mental health diagnoses.
(470) 777-6562 View (470) 777-6562
Photo of Zandra Baker, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zandra Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults through depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and grief and with couples towards cohesion, better communication, recovery from conflict, and navigating cultural differences.
Day to day life can be really hard! We're all doing the best we know how, but certain times it feels like something might be missing. We all need support in different areas to navigate our personal struggles from depression, anxiety, stress management, behavioral issues, or family communication challenges. I believe in empowering you to identify what your hopeful future and goals look like and helping you to get there in a healthy way. By focusing on these goals, your strengths, and family history, I'll support you towards growth, healing, and healthy relationships.
I work with adults through depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and grief and with couples towards cohesion, better communication, recovery from conflict, and navigating cultural differences.
Day to day life can be really hard! We're all doing the best we know how, but certain times it feels like something might be missing. We all need support in different areas to navigate our personal struggles from depression, anxiety, stress management, behavioral issues, or family communication challenges. I believe in empowering you to identify what your hopeful future and goals look like and helping you to get there in a healthy way. By focusing on these goals, your strengths, and family history, I'll support you towards growth, healing, and healthy relationships.
(678) 679-5646 View (678) 679-5646
Photo of William Brown, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
Momentum. Clarity. Possibilities. I counsel individuals and couples facing a variety of challenges. I partner with clients to discover, explore, and employ strategies to deal with the "stuff" of life. Some issues addressed include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, infidelity, sexual issues, as well as expertise and savvy in LGBTQ+ issues. Respect, honesty, trust, and equality form the basis of my therapeutic relationships. For more information, please visit my website at williambrowncounseling.com or call for a FREE 30 minute phone consultation.
Momentum. Clarity. Possibilities. I counsel individuals and couples facing a variety of challenges. I partner with clients to discover, explore, and employ strategies to deal with the "stuff" of life. Some issues addressed include depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, infidelity, sexual issues, as well as expertise and savvy in LGBTQ+ issues. Respect, honesty, trust, and equality form the basis of my therapeutic relationships. For more information, please visit my website at williambrowncounseling.com or call for a FREE 30 minute phone consultation.
(678) 929-6437 View (678) 929-6437
Photo of Jared DeFife, PhD, Psychologist
Jared DeFife
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
I specialize in working with men’s issues, chronic depression, and adult ADHD.
Emotionally intense personalities, deep thinkers, and busy minds with sensitive hearts are welcome here. You're probably tired of people telling you that you're "too much": too needy, too talkative, too picky, too clingy, or (gulp!) too sensitive! Meanwhile, you're almost constantly feeling not good enough inside: like a fraud, a failure, and falling short of finding the love, the career, the friends, the life you've aimed for. You've possibly wondered if you have chronic depression, anxiety, or adult ADHD. Anxiety, aloneness, existential angst, indecisiveness, and insecurity can leave you in an emotional tailspin.
I specialize in working with men’s issues, chronic depression, and adult ADHD.
Emotionally intense personalities, deep thinkers, and busy minds with sensitive hearts are welcome here. You're probably tired of people telling you that you're "too much": too needy, too talkative, too picky, too clingy, or (gulp!) too sensitive! Meanwhile, you're almost constantly feeling not good enough inside: like a fraud, a failure, and falling short of finding the love, the career, the friends, the life you've aimed for. You've possibly wondered if you have chronic depression, anxiety, or adult ADHD. Anxiety, aloneness, existential angst, indecisiveness, and insecurity can leave you in an emotional tailspin.
(678) 394-3398 View (678) 394-3398
Photo of Yvonne Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yvonne Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30349  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm a wife, a mom of 4, and a Seminarian with over 10 years of counseling experience. Before branching into private practice, I spent years working in the Child Welfare System. I'm passionate about counseling and helping people gain increased mental health and build positive, healthy relationships. My clients range in age from 18-65 and bring to counseling a diverse set of issues ranging from self-esteem and boundary setting, abuse, drug use, mood disorders (e.g. Anxiety & Depression), trauma, and parenting, family and marriage issues. My process involves getting to know my clients and building trust as we work together to
Hi there! I'm a wife, a mom of 4, and a Seminarian with over 10 years of counseling experience. Before branching into private practice, I spent years working in the Child Welfare System. I'm passionate about counseling and helping people gain increased mental health and build positive, healthy relationships. My clients range in age from 18-65 and bring to counseling a diverse set of issues ranging from self-esteem and boundary setting, abuse, drug use, mood disorders (e.g. Anxiety & Depression), trauma, and parenting, family and marriage issues. My process involves getting to know my clients and building trust as we work together to
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Deon L Sanders - Seek Wise Counsel , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seek Wise Counsel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
In my 14+ years as a Therapist I have gathered the skills, experience and clinical expertise in the following areas: Relationship/Marriage Problems, ADHD, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Human Sexuality, Anxiety, Self Love, Self Care, Self Acceptance and Identity issues with internal thoughts such as (Who am I, Is it okay to be who I am, am I worthy.
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
In my 14+ years as a Therapist I have gathered the skills, experience and clinical expertise in the following areas: Relationship/Marriage Problems, ADHD, Childhood Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Human Sexuality, Anxiety, Self Love, Self Care, Self Acceptance and Identity issues with internal thoughts such as (Who am I, Is it okay to be who I am, am I worthy.
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
(678) 252-5351 View (678) 252-5351
Photo of Ann McKee Parker, PhD, Psychologist
Ann McKee Parker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I have 30+ years of clinical experience working with adults who are experiencing relationship problems, have difficulty controlling anger, suffer from depression, and those who experience anxiety including PTSD. I also work with couples who want to enrich their relationship, or are caught in a cycle of negativity as well as those dealing with infidelity. Having been a corporate psychologist for 13 years I am also well qualified to coach managers and executives as well as their families.
I have 30+ years of clinical experience working with adults who are experiencing relationship problems, have difficulty controlling anger, suffer from depression, and those who experience anxiety including PTSD. I also work with couples who want to enrich their relationship, or are caught in a cycle of negativity as well as those dealing with infidelity. Having been a corporate psychologist for 13 years I am also well qualified to coach managers and executives as well as their families.
(404) 994-3425 View (404) 994-3425
Photo of Khristin Isley, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Khristin Isley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
Seeking a blank canvas, a script that ignites daily inspiration? As the artist of your own narrative, you have the ability to bring vibrancy into your existence, triumph over anxiety self-doubt and depression, and rediscover joy. You deserve a life adorned with sparkle, purpose, and passion. I blend a palette of CBT, holistic practices, music therapy and trauma-focused therapy, crafting a transformative path to healing and self-discovery. Imagine mixing colors on a canvas to create a masterpiece of growth and well-being. Embracing our authentic selves and nurturing self-awareness can lead to inner peace and fulfillment.
Seeking a blank canvas, a script that ignites daily inspiration? As the artist of your own narrative, you have the ability to bring vibrancy into your existence, triumph over anxiety self-doubt and depression, and rediscover joy. You deserve a life adorned with sparkle, purpose, and passion. I blend a palette of CBT, holistic practices, music therapy and trauma-focused therapy, crafting a transformative path to healing and self-discovery. Imagine mixing colors on a canvas to create a masterpiece of growth and well-being. Embracing our authentic selves and nurturing self-awareness can lead to inner peace and fulfillment.
(470) 785-8127 View (470) 785-8127
Photo of Maryana Harrelson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maryana Harrelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Waitlist for new clients
I help to address unresolved trauma and its present symptoms which can be masked under depression, anxiety, anger, illnesses, relationship issues etc.
Throughout therapy process I assist my clients in overcoming their difficulties in life, reaching their full potential, learning to accept themselves, and become authentic. My therapeutic style is a warm, unconditionally accepting, and supportive engagement with each individual on the thrilling journey to better understand who he/she really is, processing and letting go of the burdens carried from the past, identifying one's strengths, bolstering personal growth and change.
I help to address unresolved trauma and its present symptoms which can be masked under depression, anxiety, anger, illnesses, relationship issues etc.
Throughout therapy process I assist my clients in overcoming their difficulties in life, reaching their full potential, learning to accept themselves, and become authentic. My therapeutic style is a warm, unconditionally accepting, and supportive engagement with each individual on the thrilling journey to better understand who he/she really is, processing and letting go of the burdens carried from the past, identifying one's strengths, bolstering personal growth and change.
(770) 285-5825 View (770) 285-5825
Photo of Raquel B Outland, EdD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raquel B Outland
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
My clinical specialties include: Alcohol & Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Grief Counseling, P.
If I can have a few minutes of your time then you and I can connect to discuss some issues that concern you. Are you struggling with worry or distress? Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel happier and empowered. The goal is for you to be on a positive path to contentment and well-being. I am a mental health professional with over seventeen years of experience working with adolescents and adults in various counseling settings.
My clinical specialties include: Alcohol & Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Grief Counseling, P.
If I can have a few minutes of your time then you and I can connect to discuss some issues that concern you. Are you struggling with worry or distress? Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel happier and empowered. The goal is for you to be on a positive path to contentment and well-being. I am a mental health professional with over seventeen years of experience working with adolescents and adults in various counseling settings.
(678) 932-1687 View (678) 932-1687
Photo of George W Rinker, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George W Rinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
I am known for helping in the areas of depression, family dynamics, relationship issues, teen growth, career direction, individual identity and life coaching.
As a professional counselor I value the uniqness of each person and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas for growth, vent feelings, explore the many possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when it is helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and/or cultural differences. My approach draws on a number of theoretical orientations that best suit the group or individual needs.
I am known for helping in the areas of depression, family dynamics, relationship issues, teen growth, career direction, individual identity and life coaching.
As a professional counselor I value the uniqness of each person and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas for growth, vent feelings, explore the many possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when it is helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and/or cultural differences. My approach draws on a number of theoretical orientations that best suit the group or individual needs.
(404) 566-9095 View (404) 566-9095
1
...
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.