Photo of Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
(404) 495-5897 x100 View (404) 495-5897 x100

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Live Balanced Counseling Services LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Live Balanced Counseling Services LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, NCC, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
Are your relationships not what you want them to be, filled with conflicts and you feel alone? Are you anxious, depressed, and feel that no one recognizes your potential or worth? You wake up every day and go about your routine, but you have lost your zest for life? Let me help you. You are in need of a therapist like me, who will first acknowledge the way you are feeling and not tell you "just get over it." I will empower you and give you the tools you need to get and feel connected again, to find joy and fulfillment in life, to "smell the roses again." COME SEE ME! I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families.
Are your relationships not what you want them to be, filled with conflicts and you feel alone? Are you anxious, depressed, and feel that no one recognizes your potential or worth? You wake up every day and go about your routine, but you have lost your zest for life? Let me help you. You are in need of a therapist like me, who will first acknowledge the way you are feeling and not tell you "just get over it." I will empower you and give you the tools you need to get and feel connected again, to find joy and fulfillment in life, to "smell the roses again." COME SEE ME! I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families.
(678) 582-1340 View (678) 582-1340
Photo of Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Holt works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
Holt works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
(678) 974-0056 View (678) 974-0056
Photo of Cheryl Lockett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Cheryl Lockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Grayson, GA 30017
My specialty is individual, family counseling, anger management/conflict resolution, behavior modification, couple's counseling, depression assessment, domestic violence, trauma assessments, child abuse & neglect, diagnostic assessments, psychological evaluation, comprehensive assessments, grief therapy tele-mental health etc.
My name is Dr. Lockett, I am a clinical therapist and also a non-profit organization( MIND Family & Social Services, Inc). We provide counseling and community intervention to adults and children. Our focus is on diffusing the current crisis/situation, evaluate its nature to reduce the likelihood of the re-occurrence. Our aim is to ensure clinical appropriateness of services provided, improve client's ability to care for self and family and ensure linkage to community resources.
My specialty is individual, family counseling, anger management/conflict resolution, behavior modification, couple's counseling, depression assessment, domestic violence, trauma assessments, child abuse & neglect, diagnostic assessments, psychological evaluation, comprehensive assessments, grief therapy tele-mental health etc.
My name is Dr. Lockett, I am a clinical therapist and also a non-profit organization( MIND Family & Social Services, Inc). We provide counseling and community intervention to adults and children. Our focus is on diffusing the current crisis/situation, evaluate its nature to reduce the likelihood of the re-occurrence. Our aim is to ensure clinical appropriateness of services provided, improve client's ability to care for self and family and ensure linkage to community resources.
(470) 264-5184 View (470) 264-5184
Photo of The Fountain of Hope Counseling Services,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
The Fountain of Hope Counseling Services,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lithonia, GA 30058
"Can you imagine life returning to a state of emotional wellness, or waking up feeling happy for no particular reason?" Don't lose hope! Beyond the pain is emotional freedom. Emotional pain can present as unbearable and never ending. A constant state of chaos can give rise to depression and anxiety; Feeling lonely as if nobody cares. You might wonder if life is worth living. Your emotional state makes it difficult to anticipate a brighter future. You may feel powerless and hopeless about life. You may feel numb and empty. Most of my referrals are word of mouth and my professional services will help to restore hope for the future.
"Can you imagine life returning to a state of emotional wellness, or waking up feeling happy for no particular reason?" Don't lose hope! Beyond the pain is emotional freedom. Emotional pain can present as unbearable and never ending. A constant state of chaos can give rise to depression and anxiety; Feeling lonely as if nobody cares. You might wonder if life is worth living. Your emotional state makes it difficult to anticipate a brighter future. You may feel powerless and hopeless about life. You may feel numb and empty. Most of my referrals are word of mouth and my professional services will help to restore hope for the future.
(404) 737-0445 View (404) 737-0445
Photo of Chelsey Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Chelsey Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucker, GA 30084
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adults. I provide directive and non-directive play therapy approaches. I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, depression, anxiety and adjustment issues following family disturbances such as divorce or family losses. I strive to provide a safe place for individuals and families to explore their thoughts and emotions related to the struggle that they are learning to cope with.
I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adults. I provide directive and non-directive play therapy approaches. I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, depression, anxiety and adjustment issues following family disturbances such as divorce or family losses. I strive to provide a safe place for individuals and families to explore their thoughts and emotions related to the struggle that they are learning to cope with.
(678) 535-2667 View (678) 535-2667
Photo of DeBrica Butler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
DeBrica Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stone Mountain, GA 30083  (Online Only)
DeBrica has always desired to be a support for individuals and assist families with working through life’s complex issues, depression, anxiety, addiction and trauma.
DeBrica Butler is a LPC, native of Decatur, GA. She achieved her BS in Human Services from Shorter university and Masters in Marriage and Family therapy from Capella University. DeBrica has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked with the Department of Juvenile Justice to provide substance abuse and anger management groups worked; and with the Department of Family and Children services providing support, coping and parenting strategies to families experiencing neglect and trauma. DeBrica has always desired to be a support for individuals and assist families with working through life’s complexities.
DeBrica has always desired to be a support for individuals and assist families with working through life’s complex issues, depression, anxiety, addiction and trauma.
DeBrica Butler is a LPC, native of Decatur, GA. She achieved her BS in Human Services from Shorter university and Masters in Marriage and Family therapy from Capella University. DeBrica has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked with the Department of Juvenile Justice to provide substance abuse and anger management groups worked; and with the Department of Family and Children services providing support, coping and parenting strategies to families experiencing neglect and trauma. DeBrica has always desired to be a support for individuals and assist families with working through life’s complexities.
(470) 842-9033 View (470) 842-9033
Photo of Samelhia M Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Samelhia M Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
I am a counselor who specializes in helping clients achieve their goals. I offer a judgment-free, unconventional approach to counseling as I believe therapy should be tailored to the person asking for help. I firmly believe everyone does things in their own unique way and time so honing in on self-identified strengths assists me with helping clients improve upon what they may consider their "challenges". I also assist my clients with getting in tune with those hidden strengths they may be unaware of. The hardest part of therapy is getting started. Book a session and take a chance. It is the only way to be the change you wish to see.
I am a counselor who specializes in helping clients achieve their goals. I offer a judgment-free, unconventional approach to counseling as I believe therapy should be tailored to the person asking for help. I firmly believe everyone does things in their own unique way and time so honing in on self-identified strengths assists me with helping clients improve upon what they may consider their "challenges". I also assist my clients with getting in tune with those hidden strengths they may be unaware of. The hardest part of therapy is getting started. Book a session and take a chance. It is the only way to be the change you wish to see.
(470) 228-4755 View (470) 228-4755
Photo of Ameleo D Manuel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Ameleo D Manuel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
While many of the things life throws at us can be challenging and painful, they can also become a catalyst to showcase our strengths, resiliency, and opportunity for growth. I feel that our experiences, both positive and negative, help shape who we are, and make us unique. Through counseling, developing a better understanding of our histories, along with the connection to this and current functioning in various aspects of our lives; we can greatly enhance insight into ourselves as to why we do what we do.
While many of the things life throws at us can be challenging and painful, they can also become a catalyst to showcase our strengths, resiliency, and opportunity for growth. I feel that our experiences, both positive and negative, help shape who we are, and make us unique. Through counseling, developing a better understanding of our histories, along with the connection to this and current functioning in various aspects of our lives; we can greatly enhance insight into ourselves as to why we do what we do.
(678) 931-9683 View (678) 931-9683
Photo of Dr. Susana M Solomon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Dr. Susana M Solomon
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey, there! Are you happy? Do you have questions that you just can’t seem to answer? Is there a feeling of disconnection or distraction? Do you feel like a spectator in your own life? Are you living your best life? These questions and many more face us all. As a counselor, my passion is helping you and your family answer that ultimate question with a resounding YES! In life we all struggle with our emotional health from time to time and through solution focused and cognitive behavioral counseling I work with you, my client, to resolve these concerns and promote growth.
Hey, there! Are you happy? Do you have questions that you just can’t seem to answer? Is there a feeling of disconnection or distraction? Do you feel like a spectator in your own life? Are you living your best life? These questions and many more face us all. As a counselor, my passion is helping you and your family answer that ultimate question with a resounding YES! In life we all struggle with our emotional health from time to time and through solution focused and cognitive behavioral counseling I work with you, my client, to resolve these concerns and promote growth.
(678) 919-3040 View (678) 919-3040
Photo of Nancy Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Nancy Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30345  (Online Only)
I provide confidential, easily accessible, quality, Online Therapy (video chat) to individuals, couples, and clinicians from the comfort of your home and I want you to be WELL. I truly believe that wellness won’t happen by accident. Wellness is a state of being healthy in your mind, body, and spirit and is a result of deliberate effort. Because of that I offer deliberate structured, thought provoking, mental health booster sessions and traditional therapy working towards goals you decide, since you are the expert on your life! I implement mindfulness, humor and genuine care and attention to whatever issue you are trying to overcome.
I provide confidential, easily accessible, quality, Online Therapy (video chat) to individuals, couples, and clinicians from the comfort of your home and I want you to be WELL. I truly believe that wellness won’t happen by accident. Wellness is a state of being healthy in your mind, body, and spirit and is a result of deliberate effort. Because of that I offer deliberate structured, thought provoking, mental health booster sessions and traditional therapy working towards goals you decide, since you are the expert on your life! I implement mindfulness, humor and genuine care and attention to whatever issue you are trying to overcome.
(678) 326-4969 View (678) 326-4969
Photo of Lisa C Bryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Lisa C Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
(770) 450-5374 View (770) 450-5374
Photo of Amanda Bolton, Associate Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Amanda Bolton
Associate Professional Counselor, LAPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
We are often trying to figure life out on our own because we have a belief that others already have it figured out. I'm here to tell you that they don't AND that you do not have to do it alone. Whatever you're looking for, healing, support, or maybe you're not sure yet... My job is to walk alongside you in finding it. I enjoy working with folks in all phases of life, but I specialize in EMDR, Couples Counseling (dating, living together, engaged, married), & Co-Parenting, PTSD/Trauma, and LGBTQIA+/Questioning.
We are often trying to figure life out on our own because we have a belief that others already have it figured out. I'm here to tell you that they don't AND that you do not have to do it alone. Whatever you're looking for, healing, support, or maybe you're not sure yet... My job is to walk alongside you in finding it. I enjoy working with folks in all phases of life, but I specialize in EMDR, Couples Counseling (dating, living together, engaged, married), & Co-Parenting, PTSD/Trauma, and LGBTQIA+/Questioning.
(770) 744-5788 View (770) 744-5788
Photo of Becca Samelson Webb, Associate Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Becca Samelson Webb
Associate Professional Counselor, BS, MA, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30026
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, and trauma. My passion, humor, and genuineness allow me to provide a different experience for clients who may have reservations towards therapy in the past. I believe that by embracing the dialectic of acceptance and chance, anyone can learn to love themself, change their behaviors, and build their life worth living.
I specialize in treating mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, and trauma. My passion, humor, and genuineness allow me to provide a different experience for clients who may have reservations towards therapy in the past. I believe that by embracing the dialectic of acceptance and chance, anyone can learn to love themself, change their behaviors, and build their life worth living.
(770) 762-6158 View (770) 762-6158
Photo of Lisa Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Lisa Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30092
Lisa Kelley is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience helping families in the Duluth/Johns Creek/Suwanee communities. Since completing her graduate degree, she has worked with a variety of clients in many different settings including inpatient, residential, outpatient, and home-based care. These varied work experiences have given her the opportunity to become proficient in completing biopsychosocial assessments, a variety of therapeutic interventions, parenting skills education, and community resource referrals.
Lisa Kelley is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience helping families in the Duluth/Johns Creek/Suwanee communities. Since completing her graduate degree, she has worked with a variety of clients in many different settings including inpatient, residential, outpatient, and home-based care. These varied work experiences have given her the opportunity to become proficient in completing biopsychosocial assessments, a variety of therapeutic interventions, parenting skills education, and community resource referrals.
(678) 846-3627 View (678) 846-3627
Photo of Begin Again Counseling Coaching & Consultant Serv , Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Begin Again Counseling Coaching & Consultant Serv
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MDiv, MS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30340
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling depressed, stressed, anxiety, trauma, grief, or having challenges in your relationships? For many people, it can be hard to cope with, or move through trauma, grief, loss and life's transitions. I’m a LPC-TeleMental Health Therapist, I offer an integrative approach to promote healings on all levels: mind, body, soul and spirit. I am here to help you move forward, cope, adapt and thrive in your relationships. Your mental health is strengthened or weakened by the relationships you have with God, self, and others. It's time for you to START WITHIN and BEGIN AGAIN! Call me to receive support via video or phone session.
Are you feeling depressed, stressed, anxiety, trauma, grief, or having challenges in your relationships? For many people, it can be hard to cope with, or move through trauma, grief, loss and life's transitions. I’m a LPC-TeleMental Health Therapist, I offer an integrative approach to promote healings on all levels: mind, body, soul and spirit. I am here to help you move forward, cope, adapt and thrive in your relationships. Your mental health is strengthened or weakened by the relationships you have with God, self, and others. It's time for you to START WITHIN and BEGIN AGAIN! Call me to receive support via video or phone session.
(678) 270-2289 View (678) 270-2289

Online Therapists

Photo of Laura Meeks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Laura Meeks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Suwanee, GA 30024  (Online Only)
He enjoys working with BIPOC teens, couples, & families on trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Hello! Mucho Gusto! I am the Director of Unite Counseling & Therapy. We have a team of diverse and very talented clinicians! We personalize therapy based on your unique needs and desires, and take pride in being a great listener, teaching effective skills for creating the changes you want, and really getting to the root of issues. We know what it’s like to be in counseling and work on the hard stuff – and more importantly how amazing progress feels. We currently offer virtual appointments during the daytime, evening, and weekend. We'd love to support your in your mental, emotional, and relational health journey.
He enjoys working with BIPOC teens, couples, & families on trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Hello! Mucho Gusto! I am the Director of Unite Counseling & Therapy. We have a team of diverse and very talented clinicians! We personalize therapy based on your unique needs and desires, and take pride in being a great listener, teaching effective skills for creating the changes you want, and really getting to the root of issues. We know what it’s like to be in counseling and work on the hard stuff – and more importantly how amazing progress feels. We currently offer virtual appointments during the daytime, evening, and weekend. We'd love to support your in your mental, emotional, and relational health journey.
(678) 580-4405 View (678) 580-4405
Photo of Integral Mental Health Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Integral Mental Health Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30350  (Online Only)
Some of the most common concerns my clients address include depression, anxiety, stress, the impacts of trauma, anger, sleep problems, grief, concentration, relationship discord, boundary-setting, substance use, addictive behaviors, career concerns, family and parenting concerns, and communication issues.
You are reading this because you're hurting. That pain is real and can be explained; then, it can be addressed. How we respond to pain makes all the difference: from overwhelm and paralysis to calm and authenticity. Movement from one type of response to the other is absolutely possible Together, we’ll work to transform pain to strength, challenge to wisdom, isolation to connection, and turbulence to peace.
Some of the most common concerns my clients address include depression, anxiety, stress, the impacts of trauma, anger, sleep problems, grief, concentration, relationship discord, boundary-setting, substance use, addictive behaviors, career concerns, family and parenting concerns, and communication issues.
You are reading this because you're hurting. That pain is real and can be explained; then, it can be addressed. How we respond to pain makes all the difference: from overwhelm and paralysis to calm and authenticity. Movement from one type of response to the other is absolutely possible Together, we’ll work to transform pain to strength, challenge to wisdom, isolation to connection, and turbulence to peace.
(470) 592-8514 View (470) 592-8514
Photo of Tyler Trotter - Attento Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Tyler Trotter - Attento Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I have experience in working with substance use, depression, anxiety, and trauma among others.
I am a genuine, kind, compassionate, and empathetic person and I am here to help you. I believe that everyone is extremely important and has inherent worth and dignity. It is from this place of non-judgment and authenticity that I provide the compassionate care that I do. I work with you on the goals you would like to achieve. I provide a comfortable space to come and have a conversation. I know therapy can be somewhat overwhelming when reaching out at first, but I am here to help you with many of life’s issues that may arise.
I have experience in working with substance use, depression, anxiety, and trauma among others.
I am a genuine, kind, compassionate, and empathetic person and I am here to help you. I believe that everyone is extremely important and has inherent worth and dignity. It is from this place of non-judgment and authenticity that I provide the compassionate care that I do. I work with you on the goals you would like to achieve. I provide a comfortable space to come and have a conversation. I know therapy can be somewhat overwhelming when reaching out at first, but I am here to help you with many of life’s issues that may arise.
(678) 562-8705 View (678) 562-8705
Photo of Roy A Blankenship | Csat| Emdr | Sex Addiction, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Roy A Blankenship | Csat| Emdr | Sex Addiction
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR, CAADC
Verified Verified
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Sometimes, life becomes overwhelming or seemingly out of control resulting in anxiety, sadness, depression, confusion, anger, or irritability, along with a feeling of being powerless and without options. Factors may be related to work, marriage, parenting, financial stress, addiction, infidelity, symptoms of past traumatic experience(s), and many other things. Is your situation draining your energy or keeping you awake at night resulting in tiredness and fatigue? Is your situation affecting your life in negative ways? I have been helping people discover solutions to these kinds of problems for 25 years. Let me help you today!
Sometimes, life becomes overwhelming or seemingly out of control resulting in anxiety, sadness, depression, confusion, anger, or irritability, along with a feeling of being powerless and without options. Factors may be related to work, marriage, parenting, financial stress, addiction, infidelity, symptoms of past traumatic experience(s), and many other things. Is your situation draining your energy or keeping you awake at night resulting in tiredness and fatigue? Is your situation affecting your life in negative ways? I have been helping people discover solutions to these kinds of problems for 25 years. Let me help you today!
(678) 820-6410 View (678) 820-6410
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.