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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bridgette Reed, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leesburg, GA
Bridgette Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31707
Hi, I'm Bridgette, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia with over six years of experience. I have worked with clients with various concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, emotional abuse, career challenges, blended families, and military adjustments. I am able to relate to my clients as I have been married as a veteran's spouse for five years, and we share a blended family of 4 children. My experience as a teacher has also attuned me to child development stages and let me to want to help families with their communication, intimacy, and children.
Hi, I'm Bridgette, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia with over six years of experience. I have worked with clients with various concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, emotional abuse, career challenges, blended families, and military adjustments. I am able to relate to my clients as I have been married as a veteran's spouse for five years, and we share a blended family of 4 children. My experience as a teacher has also attuned me to child development stages and let me to want to help families with their communication, intimacy, and children.
(706) 668-2693 View (706) 668-2693

Online Therapists

Photo of Truity Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, GA
Truity Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31201  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my profession is not only my career of choice but a labor of love. I have always enjoyed assisting others. My goal is provide a safe encouraging environment where individual feels safe in expressing their concerns and issues. I have experience working with a diverse population who struggle with depression, PTSD, family conflict and relationship issues. I assist clients in developing insight into the source of their behavioral issues and concerns.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my profession is not only my career of choice but a labor of love. I have always enjoyed assisting others. My goal is provide a safe encouraging environment where individual feels safe in expressing their concerns and issues. I have experience working with a diverse population who struggle with depression, PTSD, family conflict and relationship issues. I assist clients in developing insight into the source of their behavioral issues and concerns.
(478) 845-7944 View (478) 845-7944
Photo of Darren D Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leesburg, GA
Darren D Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT , Aprvd, Supv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31907
Moore has worked with a variety of issues, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Addiction, workplace conflict, family dysfunction, childhood trauma, parent/child relationships, teen delinquency, sibling issues, caregiver stress, children with disabilities, couples conflict, religious concerns, among other areas.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
Moore has worked with a variety of issues, including but not limited to stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, Addiction, workplace conflict, family dysfunction, childhood trauma, parent/child relationships, teen delinquency, sibling issues, caregiver stress, children with disabilities, couples conflict, religious concerns, among other areas.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
(762) 583-8917 View (762) 583-8917
Photo of Erin Whitley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Leesburg, GA
Erin Whitley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tifton, GA 31794
"To this day, one of the greatest honors of my life is when people trust me enough to share the hard parts of their story" - Author unknown. Everyone's story is unique and their own. I believe that my clients have the ability to change the narrative of their story. Life often takes difficult, unexpected turns. It can be helpful to have support as you navigate these new experiences. I work with my clients to co-create change in areas that are important for them. I often work with Clients who have experiences trauma, unexpected life changes, mood disorders such as anxiety or depression, and more.
"To this day, one of the greatest honors of my life is when people trust me enough to share the hard parts of their story" - Author unknown. Everyone's story is unique and their own. I believe that my clients have the ability to change the narrative of their story. Life often takes difficult, unexpected turns. It can be helpful to have support as you navigate these new experiences. I work with my clients to co-create change in areas that are important for them. I often work with Clients who have experiences trauma, unexpected life changes, mood disorders such as anxiety or depression, and more.
(229) 280-6657 View (229) 280-6657
Photo of Raven Demery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, GA
Raven Demery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901  (Online Only)
Do you feel weighed down by the trials of life? I empower high functioning men and women to overcome the burden of anxiety and depression that can come through challenging life experiences. Those challenges can impact your mood, motivation towards daily life, and your thoughts. I am passionate about helping you learn how to better manage the not so fun areas of your life. I love mixing quality conversations and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to get to the root of how you perceive your struggles.
Do you feel weighed down by the trials of life? I empower high functioning men and women to overcome the burden of anxiety and depression that can come through challenging life experiences. Those challenges can impact your mood, motivation towards daily life, and your thoughts. I am passionate about helping you learn how to better manage the not so fun areas of your life. I love mixing quality conversations and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to get to the root of how you perceive your struggles.
(706) 525-5785 View (706) 525-5785
Photo of Georgia Behavioral, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, GA
Georgia Behavioral
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
Georgia Behavioral provides treatment for mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, behavioral issues, school issues, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and other conditions. We also provide medication management. We are located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. Our facility provides safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. Our program treats patients age 5 and older in an outpatient setting. Our staff is specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way.
Georgia Behavioral provides treatment for mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, behavioral issues, school issues, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and other conditions. We also provide medication management. We are located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. Our facility provides safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. Our program treats patients age 5 and older in an outpatient setting. Our staff is specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way.
(478) 292-2560 View (478) 292-2560
Photo of Darla N. Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, GA
Darla N. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADCII, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warner Robins, GA 31088
It is vital to provide integrated treatment for mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and similar conditions. Located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. I provide safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. I am specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way. I have specialized training in the services being treated.
It is vital to provide integrated treatment for mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and similar conditions. Located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. I provide safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. I am specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way. I have specialized training in the services being treated.
(478) 449-1590 View (478) 449-1590
Photo of Nyesia Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, 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 Abby Wesselman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leesburg, GA
Abby Wesselman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warner Robins, GA 31088
Are you tired of feeling alone, misunderstood and stuck? Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, communication concerns and conflict with your loved ones? Have you been feeling disconnected and unhappy in your relationship with your partner, family members or other loved ones? Conflict can ebb and flow in all aspects of our life, but sometimes the load seems hard to bear and seemingly impossible to handle yourself. If any of these examples resonate with you then please know that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and that light starts to shine brighter with the start of your first session.
Are you tired of feeling alone, misunderstood and stuck? Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, communication concerns and conflict with your loved ones? Have you been feeling disconnected and unhappy in your relationship with your partner, family members or other loved ones? Conflict can ebb and flow in all aspects of our life, but sometimes the load seems hard to bear and seemingly impossible to handle yourself. If any of these examples resonate with you then please know that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and that light starts to shine brighter with the start of your first session.
(478) 352-0422 View (478) 352-0422
Photo of HOPE Virtual Counseling & Therapy - Healing Online, Counselor in Leesburg, GA
HOPE Virtual Counseling & Therapy - Healing Online
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Byron, GA 31008  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with 20+ years experience in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, family issues, grief, behavior problems and many other problems that people may be experiencing. I work with clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds and different sexual orientations. I have a unique, interdisciplinary background. The well-being of my clients is my biggest passion. I am committed to helping people avoid negative consequences in their lives and resolve their issues and internal conflict sensibly, effectively, and compassionately.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor with 20+ years experience in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, family issues, grief, behavior problems and many other problems that people may be experiencing. I work with clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds and different sexual orientations. I have a unique, interdisciplinary background. The well-being of my clients is my biggest passion. I am committed to helping people avoid negative consequences in their lives and resolve their issues and internal conflict sensibly, effectively, and compassionately.
(478) 217-7741 View (478) 217-7741
Photo of Quinten Peprah Oppong, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Leesburg, GA
Quinten Peprah Oppong
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, Quinten, Oppong, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warner Robins, GA 31088
Through several therapeutic tools such as TFCBT & CBT, I help Adults and Children discover the root causes of their depression, anxiety, trauma, abandonment, grief, and anger.
I'm an Italian – Ghanaian Immigrant and I understand what its like to face uncertainty. At young age I immigrated to the U.S and had to deal with all of life’s curveballs: parental divorce, adjusting to new culture, anxiety, depression, etc. However, I learned what it means to be resilient. Resilience takes vulnerability and courage. It takes believing you will make it out on the other side. I understand what it is like to face life’s pressures and questions: what if I fail, and what if I am not good enough? You feel trapped, you are suffering silently & everyone expects you to be strong. If this is where you are, I am here to help.
Through several therapeutic tools such as TFCBT & CBT, I help Adults and Children discover the root causes of their depression, anxiety, trauma, abandonment, grief, and anger.
I'm an Italian – Ghanaian Immigrant and I understand what its like to face uncertainty. At young age I immigrated to the U.S and had to deal with all of life’s curveballs: parental divorce, adjusting to new culture, anxiety, depression, etc. However, I learned what it means to be resilient. Resilience takes vulnerability and courage. It takes believing you will make it out on the other side. I understand what it is like to face life’s pressures and questions: what if I fail, and what if I am not good enough? You feel trapped, you are suffering silently & everyone expects you to be strong. If this is where you are, I am here to help.
(478) 249-4677 View (478) 249-4677
Photo of Gerri Ann Robbins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leesburg, GA
Gerri Ann Robbins
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
It is my hope to help those in my care to overcome whatever challenges they may be facing, whether that is anxiety, depression, substance use, or relationship discord.
Working with and caring for individuals, couples, and families is my life's purpose. It is my pleasure to help my clients assess and achieve their goals by addressing their concerns from a holistic approach--biologically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually. Through active engagement in the therapeutic process, in conjunction with assigned homework tasks between sessions, I can assist my clients with achieving the improvements they wish for, resulting in a healthier outcome for their lives. Our practice has also partnered with other trusted medical professionals to assist our clients with any additional identified needs.
It is my hope to help those in my care to overcome whatever challenges they may be facing, whether that is anxiety, depression, substance use, or relationship discord.
Working with and caring for individuals, couples, and families is my life's purpose. It is my pleasure to help my clients assess and achieve their goals by addressing their concerns from a holistic approach--biologically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually. Through active engagement in the therapeutic process, in conjunction with assigned homework tasks between sessions, I can assist my clients with achieving the improvements they wish for, resulting in a healthier outcome for their lives. Our practice has also partnered with other trusted medical professionals to assist our clients with any additional identified needs.
(912) 665-6989 View (912) 665-6989
Photo of Susan S Bradshaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leesburg, 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 The LifeSource LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, GA
The LifeSource LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31906
I have extensive experience in working with clients with depression, anger management, trauma, stress, life transitions, grief/loss, domestic violence, boundary settings, relationship issues, conflict management, parenting, behavioral issues, pre-martial counseling, and marriage counseling.
I have a passion for helping those who are struggling with navigating through some of life's tough challenges. My goal is to join in on the journey and help you face those tough challenges by developing lifelong coping skills in an environment that is accepting to your individualized needs.
I have extensive experience in working with clients with depression, anger management, trauma, stress, life transitions, grief/loss, domestic violence, boundary settings, relationship issues, conflict management, parenting, behavioral issues, pre-martial counseling, and marriage counseling.
I have a passion for helping those who are struggling with navigating through some of life's tough challenges. My goal is to join in on the journey and help you face those tough challenges by developing lifelong coping skills in an environment that is accepting to your individualized needs.
(762) 583-8586 View (762) 583-8586
Photo of Kasey S Holyfield, Counselor in Leesburg, GA
Kasey S Holyfield
Counselor, MS, LPC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31601
I have extensive training in Anger management, mood disorders (anxiety/depression), family systems, ABA, , infertility, and many more.
My passion is to help aid my clients in identifying who they are, where they are and where they are wanting to get too. I work to help resolve conflict individually, in families, and/or relationships. Each client's story and journey is specific to them so my goal is to shape treatment to the specific needs of each person. We will work through the difficult moments, learn skills to aid in independence, and become comfortable enough to reach out for support when something is not working. Breaking patterns and creating new ones based off the person/family/couple you strive to be is the goal of each session.
I have extensive training in Anger management, mood disorders (anxiety/depression), family systems, ABA, , infertility, and many more.
My passion is to help aid my clients in identifying who they are, where they are and where they are wanting to get too. I work to help resolve conflict individually, in families, and/or relationships. Each client's story and journey is specific to them so my goal is to shape treatment to the specific needs of each person. We will work through the difficult moments, learn skills to aid in independence, and become comfortable enough to reach out for support when something is not working. Breaking patterns and creating new ones based off the person/family/couple you strive to be is the goal of each session.
(229) 341-0650 View (229) 341-0650
Photo of Dr. Omar Flores Taveras, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leesburg, GA
Dr. Omar Flores Taveras
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CAC II, CCS, CSOTS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Warner Robins, GA 31093
Many of us seek to enhance our quality of life and well-being. However, life has a way of throwing us pitfalls at times. There are moments when a trained professional is beneficial to help address issues, needs, and goals for the future. You may be struggling with family issues and could use some direction on coping with family dynamics due to stressors, mental health issues, substance abuse, or an adolescent who is oppositional. Your goal may be to learn effective coping strategies, repair a broken relationship, pull yourself out of depression, or to simply work on being happy.
Many of us seek to enhance our quality of life and well-being. However, life has a way of throwing us pitfalls at times. There are moments when a trained professional is beneficial to help address issues, needs, and goals for the future. You may be struggling with family issues and could use some direction on coping with family dynamics due to stressors, mental health issues, substance abuse, or an adolescent who is oppositional. Your goal may be to learn effective coping strategies, repair a broken relationship, pull yourself out of depression, or to simply work on being happy.
(478) 449-0254 View (478) 449-0254
Photo of Sarah Steedman James, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, GA
Sarah Steedman James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31605
I am passionate about being able to help clients learn to help themselves. Often times, we aren't equipped with the tools and knowledge to move through life's challenges. I specialize in helping my clients heal from underlying traumas that continue to cause distress, while also treating current symptoms of anxiety and depression. I hope that each of my clients feel validated, supported, and valued. I am inspired by seeing my clients begin making necessary changes in their own lives to improve their overall wellbeing.
I am passionate about being able to help clients learn to help themselves. Often times, we aren't equipped with the tools and knowledge to move through life's challenges. I specialize in helping my clients heal from underlying traumas that continue to cause distress, while also treating current symptoms of anxiety and depression. I hope that each of my clients feel validated, supported, and valued. I am inspired by seeing my clients begin making necessary changes in their own lives to improve their overall wellbeing.
(229) 800-3806 View (229) 800-3806
Photo of Natalie L. Wakeley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, GA
Natalie L. Wakeley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warner Robins, GA 31088  (Online Only)
Welcome! If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and are looking for a holistic and solutions based approach, I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and I have experience working with clients from all walks of life with varying concerns. My specializations include treating Trauma, PTSD, BPD, Bipolar Disorder, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, family conflict, life transitions and co-dependency. I offer both individual and family therapy.
Welcome! If you're new to therapy or have tried therapy in the past and are looking for a holistic and solutions based approach, I can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor and I have experience working with clients from all walks of life with varying concerns. My specializations include treating Trauma, PTSD, BPD, Bipolar Disorder, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, family conflict, life transitions and co-dependency. I offer both individual and family therapy.
(478) 316-2427 View (478) 316-2427
Photo of Caryn Patel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, GA
Caryn Patel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA MFT , LPC
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31088
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor ( LPC) that has more than 7 years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma and anger from childhood to adult .
Is it normal to feel additional stress and anxiety during right now? Do you feel like you are repeating the same mistakes over and over again? Everybody experiences life differently. If you are having a problem with increased depression, anxiety or grief, I can help you learn to empower yourself and become that stronger person that you are looking for. Let me help you find the skills to make stronger relationships and build better families. If you feel like you are stuck and in a bad place, or just need a little help, let me help you. I believe in the power of self.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor ( LPC) that has more than 7 years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma and anger from childhood to adult .
Is it normal to feel additional stress and anxiety during right now? Do you feel like you are repeating the same mistakes over and over again? Everybody experiences life differently. If you are having a problem with increased depression, anxiety or grief, I can help you learn to empower yourself and become that stronger person that you are looking for. Let me help you find the skills to make stronger relationships and build better families. If you feel like you are stuck and in a bad place, or just need a little help, let me help you. I believe in the power of self.
(478) 449-6657 View (478) 449-6657
Photo of Emotional Wellness Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, GA
Emotional Wellness Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, CCS
Verified Verified
Macon, GA 31220
Emotional Wellness is the ability to deal and cope with unforeseen challenges that may suddenly affect a person's life. With the impact of social media, unpredictable disasters, losses and uncertainties, we are often left wondering what is going to happen next . My goal is to teach you skills, to reduce your feelings of fear, depression, anxiety, as you work through losses, trauma, and relationship challenges, my ultimate goal is equip you with skills to cope in a world that is filled with uncertainties. I am committed to providing you with the highest level of care, and I welcome the opportunity to work with you and your family.
Emotional Wellness is the ability to deal and cope with unforeseen challenges that may suddenly affect a person's life. With the impact of social media, unpredictable disasters, losses and uncertainties, we are often left wondering what is going to happen next . My goal is to teach you skills, to reduce your feelings of fear, depression, anxiety, as you work through losses, trauma, and relationship challenges, my ultimate goal is equip you with skills to cope in a world that is filled with uncertainties. I am committed to providing you with the highest level of care, and I welcome the opportunity to work with you and your family.
(912) 400-0442 View (912) 400-0442

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Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Leesburg

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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.