Photo of LaFrancine Wells Bradford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Park, GA
LaFrancine Wells Bradford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Park, GA 31636
Lifetime Counseling and Management Services focuses on creating a comfortable and stress-free environment all while providing professional service. LaFrancine is straightforward, yet compassionate and a caring person who strives to maximize happiness in the lives of all clients equipping them with problem-solving techniques which will potentially enable clients to make best life decisions. Integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism are held in high regard as well as her biblical foundation. As a Marriage Family Therapist, LaFrancine is committed to helping you get through challenges life can bring throughout your lifetime.
Lifetime Counseling and Management Services focuses on creating a comfortable and stress-free environment all while providing professional service. LaFrancine is straightforward, yet compassionate and a caring person who strives to maximize happiness in the lives of all clients equipping them with problem-solving techniques which will potentially enable clients to make best life decisions. Integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism are held in high regard as well as her biblical foundation. As a Marriage Family Therapist, LaFrancine is committed to helping you get through challenges life can bring throughout your lifetime.
(229) 442-9038 View (229) 442-9038

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Aunjuli Hicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Dr. Aunjuli Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Coach
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31606
I want to help those suffering from low self-esteem, anxiety, PTSD, depression, stressors, and unhealthy relationships, including domestic violence.
Having worked in the mental health profession for over 25 years, I am a licensed mental health professional and owner of the Hicks Group Wellness Center. My primary work is with individuals suffering from domestic violence, traumas, anxiety, and depression. I am particular about whom I take as a client; my ideal client is ready for transformative change and motivated to do the therapeutic work that comes with counseling.
I want to help those suffering from low self-esteem, anxiety, PTSD, depression, stressors, and unhealthy relationships, including domestic violence.
Having worked in the mental health profession for over 25 years, I am a licensed mental health professional and owner of the Hicks Group Wellness Center. My primary work is with individuals suffering from domestic violence, traumas, anxiety, and depression. I am particular about whom I take as a client; my ideal client is ready for transformative change and motivated to do the therapeutic work that comes with counseling.
(908) 364-7611 View (908) 364-7611
Photo of Tommy Hampton IV, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Tommy Hampton IV
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CFVIPF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31603  (Online Only)
Greetings and welcome! I'm Tommy Hampton, IV. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My extensive education and training have equipped me to specialize in a holistic approach in areas such as Couple's Dynamics, Family Systems, Men's Issues, Christian Counseling, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Stress Management, Parenting, Anger Management, Cultural Competency Issues, and Personal Growth.
Greetings and welcome! I'm Tommy Hampton, IV. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My extensive education and training have equipped me to specialize in a holistic approach in areas such as Couple's Dynamics, Family Systems, Men's Issues, Christian Counseling, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Stress Management, Parenting, Anger Management, Cultural Competency Issues, and Personal Growth.
(229) 715-7521 View (229) 715-7521

Online Therapists

Photo of Walker Counseling and Consulting , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Walker Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31701  (Online Only)
Hello potential clients. I am delighted that you have decided to reach out for help with managing your issues/stressors. Rest assured that I am here to help you with whatever issues you are facing. Whether your issues are related to everyday life stressors; work/career stressors, couples/marital stressors, caregiver stressors, parenting stressors, or other issues such as grief/loss, depression, and/or anxiety I am here to help you set goals and help you to better manage those stressors. During our initial contact, we will also discuss the things that need to change in your life and your counseling expectations.
Hello potential clients. I am delighted that you have decided to reach out for help with managing your issues/stressors. Rest assured that I am here to help you with whatever issues you are facing. Whether your issues are related to everyday life stressors; work/career stressors, couples/marital stressors, caregiver stressors, parenting stressors, or other issues such as grief/loss, depression, and/or anxiety I am here to help you set goals and help you to better manage those stressors. During our initial contact, we will also discuss the things that need to change in your life and your counseling expectations.
(229) 210-3015 View (229) 210-3015
Photo of Beverly R Sargent, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Beverly R Sargent
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge, GA 39819  (Online Only)
We work with people of all ages who are grieving, dealing with depression, anger and abuse.
I am a Pastoral Therapist who believes in the power of play! Through the use of play and sand, people of all ages can re-connect with mind, body, spirit and soul; gaining a deeper understanding of life's experiences and with time and effort, find a place of peace, hope and healing.
We work with people of all ages who are grieving, dealing with depression, anger and abuse.
I am a Pastoral Therapist who believes in the power of play! Through the use of play and sand, people of all ages can re-connect with mind, body, spirit and soul; gaining a deeper understanding of life's experiences and with time and effort, find a place of peace, hope and healing.
(229) 800-1922 View (229) 800-1922
Photo of Kristi Meade, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Kristi Meade
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Meigs, GA 31765  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, etc.
My name is Kristi Meade. I’m 37 year old straight married female with two wonderful son. I have been fully licensed as LPC for over 3 years now but have been working in the mental health/substance abuse field for over 6 years now. I recently become National Board Certified Counselor in 1/2024. I currently work full time as an inpatient assessor/therapist at a behavioral health crisis center for over 6 years now.
I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance abuse, etc.
My name is Kristi Meade. I’m 37 year old straight married female with two wonderful son. I have been fully licensed as LPC for over 3 years now but have been working in the mental health/substance abuse field for over 6 years now. I recently become National Board Certified Counselor in 1/2024. I currently work full time as an inpatient assessor/therapist at a behavioral health crisis center for over 6 years now.
(229) 210-8792 View (229) 210-8792
Photo of Shanice Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Shanice Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Marys, GA 31558  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck mentally and emotionally? Are you struggling with your sense of self and finding ways to make yourself a priority without feeling like your letting down those closest to you? As a Licensed therapist, I specialize in helping adults transform their lives by addressing and identifying problematic patterns, traumas and stressors reducing their quality of life through both spiritual and therapeutic interventions. I believe that there's a you that you have yet to discover. My approach is individualized and I utilize CBT, Mindfulness, DBT to address things like anxiety, depression, identity, and grief.
Are you feeling stuck mentally and emotionally? Are you struggling with your sense of self and finding ways to make yourself a priority without feeling like your letting down those closest to you? As a Licensed therapist, I specialize in helping adults transform their lives by addressing and identifying problematic patterns, traumas and stressors reducing their quality of life through both spiritual and therapeutic interventions. I believe that there's a you that you have yet to discover. My approach is individualized and I utilize CBT, Mindfulness, DBT to address things like anxiety, depression, identity, and grief.
(912) 378-1521 View (912) 378-1521
Photo of Nyesia Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Nyesia Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
Are you keeping your struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief hidden behind a polished exterior? Everyone sees you as having everything sorted, but behind closed doors, it's an ongoing challenge. Your social energy wears thin, intrusive thoughts linger, and it's impacting your confidence, relationships, family, and work. There's a sense that a shift is needed—whether it's a new and exciting relationship, the closure of an existing one, or an uncertain urge for change. You might not be sure what's prompting this, but you feel ready to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your past experiences.
Are you keeping your struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief hidden behind a polished exterior? Everyone sees you as having everything sorted, but behind closed doors, it's an ongoing challenge. Your social energy wears thin, intrusive thoughts linger, and it's impacting your confidence, relationships, family, and work. There's a sense that a shift is needed—whether it's a new and exciting relationship, the closure of an existing one, or an uncertain urge for change. You might not be sure what's prompting this, but you feel ready to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your past experiences.
(229) 297-7034 View (229) 297-7034
Photo of Marsha Carlton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Marsha Carlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moultrie, GA 31768  (Online Only)
I have experience with treating trauma; grief & loss, relationships, substance abuse, co-dependency, family dynamics, interpersonal struggles, anxiety, depression.
You already have within you everything you need within you to thrive! What is the concern that brings you here today? My priority is to assist you to discover your own needs & values; to unearth your own answers; to accomplish your wellness goals; and to live a purpose-driven life. Wherever you are is where we will begin. I will offer you hope and help you develop your strengths to focus on changing the things you can. I ask that you bring your courage to each session (I’ll help you find it!). And I ask that you be open to trusting the process. You can learn to navigate with courage, grace, and a stronger sense of love for self.
I have experience with treating trauma; grief & loss, relationships, substance abuse, co-dependency, family dynamics, interpersonal struggles, anxiety, depression.
You already have within you everything you need within you to thrive! What is the concern that brings you here today? My priority is to assist you to discover your own needs & values; to unearth your own answers; to accomplish your wellness goals; and to live a purpose-driven life. Wherever you are is where we will begin. I will offer you hope and help you develop your strengths to focus on changing the things you can. I ask that you bring your courage to each session (I’ll help you find it!). And I ask that you be open to trusting the process. You can learn to navigate with courage, grace, and a stronger sense of love for self.
(229) 575-1957 View (229) 575-1957
Photo of Evonne Nelson-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Evonne Nelson-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Kingsland, GA 31548
In my experience, I have worked with those who struggle with or have concerns including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, critical thinking, anger and other issues.
I am licensed in the state of Georgia and have worked in the mental health field for 20 years. Seven of those years I have worked as a therapist/counselor. Some of my experience includes working in a residential treatment center, in an outpatient community mental health clinic, private practice, as well as in school settings. I have worked with those from all different ethnic backgrounds with great outcomes. I enjoy helping adolescents and adults live happier, healthier lives, by improving their mental health and education. Based on the initial session, treatment will be tailored to the needs of each individual.
In my experience, I have worked with those who struggle with or have concerns including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, critical thinking, anger and other issues.
I am licensed in the state of Georgia and have worked in the mental health field for 20 years. Seven of those years I have worked as a therapist/counselor. Some of my experience includes working in a residential treatment center, in an outpatient community mental health clinic, private practice, as well as in school settings. I have worked with those from all different ethnic backgrounds with great outcomes. I enjoy helping adolescents and adults live happier, healthier lives, by improving their mental health and education. Based on the initial session, treatment will be tailored to the needs of each individual.
(904) 395-4966 View (904) 395-4966
Photo of Dr. Sherry L Aaker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Dr. Sherry L Aaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Ochlocknee, GA 31773  (Online Only)
Empower your journey to mental health wellness with expert guidance, as I am accepting new clients for counseling to ensure a seamless experience for healing. If you need help healing and moving forward with all life has to offer, such as with getting older, life changes, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I can help you with dealing with pain, sadness, loneliness, or anxiety. Remember, you are not alone.
Empower your journey to mental health wellness with expert guidance, as I am accepting new clients for counseling to ensure a seamless experience for healing. If you need help healing and moving forward with all life has to offer, such as with getting older, life changes, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I can help you with dealing with pain, sadness, loneliness, or anxiety. Remember, you are not alone.
(229) 999-4652 View (229) 999-4652
Photo of Kalyn Brumbley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Kalyn Brumbley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional & an EMDR-trained clinician, I am passionate about joining you in exploring how your past experiences may contribute to your present symptoms, including depression, impulsivity, relational issues, low self-esteem, substance use, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anger, grief, and life transition difficulties.
Hello, I'm Kalyn Brumbley - Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist! I am excited for you as you explore your next steps in seeking healing & change in your life. My primary goal as a Therapist is to offer you the space to be vulnerable and creative in collaborative solution-finding while strengthening internal resources to promote your personal growth & to expand your view of yourself. I enjoy learning about your unique understanding of your own experience, as well foster curiousity about your interactions within a network of systems/relationships. I strive to hold your stories with care, empathy, & compassion.
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional & an EMDR-trained clinician, I am passionate about joining you in exploring how your past experiences may contribute to your present symptoms, including depression, impulsivity, relational issues, low self-esteem, substance use, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideations, anger, grief, and life transition difficulties.
Hello, I'm Kalyn Brumbley - Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist! I am excited for you as you explore your next steps in seeking healing & change in your life. My primary goal as a Therapist is to offer you the space to be vulnerable and creative in collaborative solution-finding while strengthening internal resources to promote your personal growth & to expand your view of yourself. I enjoy learning about your unique understanding of your own experience, as well foster curiousity about your interactions within a network of systems/relationships. I strive to hold your stories with care, empathy, & compassion.
(229) 999-2394 View (229) 999-2394
Photo of Rodney G. Larson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Rodney G. Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCN, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thomasville, GA 31792
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disorganized, or forgetful or unfocused? Do you swing from feeling “stressed-out” to depressed? Are you experiencing the long term effects from early childhood trauma - neglect or physical abuse- that culminated in Complex P.T.S.D. symptoms. You may be dealing with other bio-psycho-social issues which contribute to feeling anxious or moody or brain issues such as ADD, P.T.S.D. or T.B.I. Although my focus is on providing brain training with biofeedback/neurofeedback, my approach is holistic and compassionate, encouraging clients to explore their wise mind, body and brain for positive change.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disorganized, or forgetful or unfocused? Do you swing from feeling “stressed-out” to depressed? Are you experiencing the long term effects from early childhood trauma - neglect or physical abuse- that culminated in Complex P.T.S.D. symptoms. You may be dealing with other bio-psycho-social issues which contribute to feeling anxious or moody or brain issues such as ADD, P.T.S.D. or T.B.I. Although my focus is on providing brain training with biofeedback/neurofeedback, my approach is holistic and compassionate, encouraging clients to explore their wise mind, body and brain for positive change.
(678) 971-0199 View (678) 971-0199
Photo of Amanda Blair, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Park, GA
Amanda Blair
Pre-Licensed Professional, APC
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
Amanda works with many different populations and is particularly passionate about working with military members and their families using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to navigate life transitions, stress management, anxiety, depression, family, and relationship conflict. She offers individual and couples counseling, as well as spiritually based counseling by request.
Amanda works with many different populations and is particularly passionate about working with military members and their families using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to navigate life transitions, stress management, anxiety, depression, family, and relationship conflict. She offers individual and couples counseling, as well as spiritually based counseling by request.
(229) 949-2707 View (229) 949-2707
Photo of Alexandra Rose Moore, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Park, GA
Alexandra Rose Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Tifton, GA 31794
I specialize in addiction and recovery, mood disorders (like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder) domestic and family violence, as well as couples/family counselling.
Welcome! My name is Alexandra and it is a pleasure to meet you. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples alike using a mindfulness based cognitive therapeutic approach. In my role, I am here to help you gain and maintain insight on healthy behaviors and lifestyles. My background and experiences in the mental health sector are diverse. I have experience with domestic violence, depression, addiction, and more. Therapy is for everyone, no matter where you are in life, we can all benefit from support and enlightenment. Whether you are at rock bottom or at the peak of your success, I am here for you every step of your journey.
I specialize in addiction and recovery, mood disorders (like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder) domestic and family violence, as well as couples/family counselling.
Welcome! My name is Alexandra and it is a pleasure to meet you. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples alike using a mindfulness based cognitive therapeutic approach. In my role, I am here to help you gain and maintain insight on healthy behaviors and lifestyles. My background and experiences in the mental health sector are diverse. I have experience with domestic violence, depression, addiction, and more. Therapy is for everyone, no matter where you are in life, we can all benefit from support and enlightenment. Whether you are at rock bottom or at the peak of your success, I am here for you every step of your journey.
(229) 210-2531 View (229) 210-2531
Photo of Lauren Duren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Lauren Duren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31605
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor who enjoys working with preteens/teens, adults and couples in office and online. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds experiencing issues related to anxiety/worry, depression, developing healthy boundaries, stress management, relationship issues, military specific issues, parenting, healing from childhood wounds, grief & loss and spiritual growth/development. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR & BLAST technique for trauma. Together, we build a safe place for you to feel seen & heard, identify goals, process barriers and gain skills to meet these goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor who enjoys working with preteens/teens, adults and couples in office and online. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds experiencing issues related to anxiety/worry, depression, developing healthy boundaries, stress management, relationship issues, military specific issues, parenting, healing from childhood wounds, grief & loss and spiritual growth/development. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR & BLAST technique for trauma. Together, we build a safe place for you to feel seen & heard, identify goals, process barriers and gain skills to meet these goals.
(229) 463-0517 View (229) 463-0517
Photo of Susan S Bradshaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Susan S Bradshaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
Susan S. Bradshaw is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years of experience in the mental health field working with adults, teens/children. Her experience includes providing counseling with adults with varied mental health disorders that include depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, abuse, grief and relationship problems. Susan has a history of working with child/teenage sexual abuse victims and forensic interviewing of abused children. Susan has experience counseling with children and teens with emotional problems. She teaches parenting skills and has completed a certification course in co-parenting.
Susan S. Bradshaw is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years of experience in the mental health field working with adults, teens/children. Her experience includes providing counseling with adults with varied mental health disorders that include depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, abuse, grief and relationship problems. Susan has a history of working with child/teenage sexual abuse victims and forensic interviewing of abused children. Susan has experience counseling with children and teens with emotional problems. She teaches parenting skills and has completed a certification course in co-parenting.
(229) 252-7934 View (229) 252-7934
Photo of Leah C. McMillan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Park, GA
Leah C. McMillan
Marriage & Family Therapist, DPA, LMFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
My areas of specialty focus/expertise are PTSD/trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/rape, child abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, couple/marital, divorce/co-parenting, & vicarious traumatization.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
My areas of specialty focus/expertise are PTSD/trauma, intimate partner violence, sexual assault/rape, child abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, couple/marital, divorce/co-parenting, & vicarious traumatization.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
(229) 515-8880 View (229) 515-8880
Photo of Michelle Alden Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Michelle Alden Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CAMS, II
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31605
I am a fully licensed, bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2010, I have worked with Adolescents and Children as well as with families, and groups. The populations were diverse anywhere from depression, multiple personalities, trauma victims, alcohol abuse, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, anxiety, anger management, self-mutilators, bipolar, bullying victims, OCD, conduct/Oppositional, some eating disorders, grief self-esteem to name a few.
I am a fully licensed, bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2010, I have worked with Adolescents and Children as well as with families, and groups. The populations were diverse anywhere from depression, multiple personalities, trauma victims, alcohol abuse, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, anxiety, anger management, self-mutilators, bipolar, bullying victims, OCD, conduct/Oppositional, some eating disorders, grief self-esteem to name a few.
(844) 842-2462 View (844) 842-2462
Photo of Suzanna Warbington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Park, GA
Suzanna Warbington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31707
In my experience, therapy at its best is a collaborative journey between the counselor and the client. Sometimes we need help to navigate our best next steps in addressing the challenges that occur in life. Counseling is a safe place to process your experiences in a supportive environment. I am a clinically trained, licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia as well as a National Board-Certified Counselor. I enjoy working with individuals from age 8 to adulthood.
In my experience, therapy at its best is a collaborative journey between the counselor and the client. Sometimes we need help to navigate our best next steps in addressing the challenges that occur in life. Counseling is a safe place to process your experiences in a supportive environment. I am a clinically trained, licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia as well as a National Board-Certified Counselor. I enjoy working with individuals from age 8 to adulthood.
(229) 999-7570 View (229) 999-7570

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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.