Photo of Amy Buchanan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Amy Buchanan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31901
I work with clients toward resolution and healing from the impacts of traumatic experiences, grief and loss using a trauma-informed approach.
I work with clients toward resolution and healing from the impacts of traumatic experiences, grief and loss using a trauma-informed approach.
(706) 480-8771 View (706) 480-8771
Photo of Mary Ellen Connett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Muscogee County, GA
Mary Ellen Connett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31909
Hello! I'm Mary Ellen Connett, M.S., licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years experience. I'm eager to expertly guide you to transforming and healing yourself, your marriage or intimate relationships. If you are a motivated couple, woman or man wanting to break free of old destructive behavior and build a new healthier relationship with yourself and your intimate partner, you have come to the right place! Relationship Retireval is my signature service I offer to others who need to Rescue, Revive, Recover and Rebuild their relationships. Go to www.connettpsychotherapy.com and call me today!
Hello! I'm Mary Ellen Connett, M.S., licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years experience. I'm eager to expertly guide you to transforming and healing yourself, your marriage or intimate relationships. If you are a motivated couple, woman or man wanting to break free of old destructive behavior and build a new healthier relationship with yourself and your intimate partner, you have come to the right place! Relationship Retireval is my signature service I offer to others who need to Rescue, Revive, Recover and Rebuild their relationships. Go to www.connettpsychotherapy.com and call me today!
(706) 225-8095 View (706) 225-8095

Online Therapists

Photo of Dana M Lindsay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Dana M Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
I work with clients desiring help with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma issues. I also offer counseling for goals/values clarification, later career/empty nest planning, codependency, relationship stress, and couples/premarital counseling. I believe in helping clients assess and appreciate their strengths in order for them to move forward toward achieving their goals. It is important to create a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients may explore, share, and rebuild their own life stories.
(404) 666-8326 View (404) 666-8326
Photo of Zandra Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Zandra Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30307
Waitlist for new clients
Day to day life can be really hard! We're all doing the best we know how, but certain times it feels like something might be missing. We all need support in different areas to navigate our personal struggles from depression, anxiety, stress management, behavioral issues, or family communication challenges. I believe in empowering you to identify what your hopeful future and goals look like and helping you to get there in a healthy way. By focusing on these goals, your strengths, and family history, I'll support you towards growth, healing, and healthy relationships.
Day to day life can be really hard! We're all doing the best we know how, but certain times it feels like something might be missing. We all need support in different areas to navigate our personal struggles from depression, anxiety, stress management, behavioral issues, or family communication challenges. I believe in empowering you to identify what your hopeful future and goals look like and helping you to get there in a healthy way. By focusing on these goals, your strengths, and family history, I'll support you towards growth, healing, and healthy relationships.
(678) 679-5646 View (678) 679-5646
Photo of Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LPC, LAPC, MFT, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McDonough, GA 30253
Are you living with anxiety or depression? Are you having relationship issues with your significant other or family members? Do you need help adjusting to major life changes? Are you ready to make changes to your life that will result in health, happiness, and healing in all areas of your life? Today is the day to schedule an appointment with Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching McDonough to address these issues and more. Located just south of Atlanta, GA, Thriveworks McDonough therapists, counselors, and life coaches are closer than you think to get you through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit us at www.thriveworks.com/mcdonough to see what we are all about. At Thriveworks You Can Thrive. We Can Help.
Are you living with anxiety or depression? Are you having relationship issues with your significant other or family members? Do you need help adjusting to major life changes? Are you ready to make changes to your life that will result in health, happiness, and healing in all areas of your life? Today is the day to schedule an appointment with Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching McDonough to address these issues and more. Located just south of Atlanta, GA, Thriveworks McDonough therapists, counselors, and life coaches are closer than you think to get you through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit us at www.thriveworks.com/mcdonough to see what we are all about. At Thriveworks You Can Thrive. We Can Help.
(404) 998-5102 View (404) 998-5102
Photo of Stacy Franklin owner Access Counseling & Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Stacy Franklin owner Access Counseling & Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAMSII, CCDP, SPHR
Verified Verified
I partner with clients to address life stressors including, but not limited to, abandonment, depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as couples who may be experiencing a crossroads in their relationship. I also work with clients who are NOT struggling or in crisis , rather, they are looking to improve upon their self-confidence, prepare for a career change or simply grow and thrive in their personal and/or professional lives.
I partner with clients to address life stressors including, but not limited to, abandonment, depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as couples who may be experiencing a crossroads in their relationship. I also work with clients who are NOT struggling or in crisis , rather, they are looking to improve upon their self-confidence, prepare for a career change or simply grow and thrive in their personal and/or professional lives.
(770) 741-2492 View (770) 741-2492
Photo of Jillian Blum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Jillian Blum
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Ph.D. in Counselor Education specializing in working with adults, couples, & poly folks to help with challenges such as managing anxiety, depression, LGBTQAI+ identity, relationship issues, PTSD, & letters for HRT and surgeries. I work from a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, internal family systems, person centered, sex positive, kink friendly, poly friendly, and nonbinary orientation in order to explore and collaboratively work with you to assist in achieving your goals. This eclectic theory base allows for me to develop an individual treatment plan that often includes homework
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Ph.D. in Counselor Education specializing in working with adults, couples, & poly folks to help with challenges such as managing anxiety, depression, LGBTQAI+ identity, relationship issues, PTSD, & letters for HRT and surgeries. I work from a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, internal family systems, person centered, sex positive, kink friendly, poly friendly, and nonbinary orientation in order to explore and collaboratively work with you to assist in achieving your goals. This eclectic theory base allows for me to develop an individual treatment plan that often includes homework
(770) 629-9641 View (770) 629-9641
Photo of Benita A Esposito, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Benita A Esposito
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326  (Online Only)
Are you a high-achieving adult in GA or NC with challenges in your personal or professional relationships? Conflicts can take a toll on your health and your productivity. I help Highly Sensitive People and couples reduce anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, PTSD, and grief. Life's struggles can feel overwhelming, but they can also serve as catalysts for personal growth. You will gain tools to decrease emotional distress, improve communication, and resolve conflicts while building self-confidence. I am dedicated to helping you navigate relationships successfully while being true to your Authentic Self. All sessions are on Zoom.
Are you a high-achieving adult in GA or NC with challenges in your personal or professional relationships? Conflicts can take a toll on your health and your productivity. I help Highly Sensitive People and couples reduce anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, PTSD, and grief. Life's struggles can feel overwhelming, but they can also serve as catalysts for personal growth. You will gain tools to decrease emotional distress, improve communication, and resolve conflicts while building self-confidence. I am dedicated to helping you navigate relationships successfully while being true to your Authentic Self. All sessions are on Zoom.
(678) 712-3405 View (678) 712-3405
Photo of Aaron Levy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Aaron Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Providing therapy is a key to those who feel defeated, depressed and scared.
Love and Connection in life should not be confusing. But there is always a risk when it comes to getting those two critical human relational needs. Many times relationships feel like a dance, and feeling lost with no road map? It can often turn into division or discomfort, but does it always have to be that way? Emotionally Focused Therapy is a proven, evidence-based method that enhances couples' ability to gain Love and Connection through safety and security. And I would love to be that resource, coach, advocate to help partners sustain longevity in their relationship without leading to isolation or further hurt.
Providing therapy is a key to those who feel defeated, depressed and scared.
Love and Connection in life should not be confusing. But there is always a risk when it comes to getting those two critical human relational needs. Many times relationships feel like a dance, and feeling lost with no road map? It can often turn into division or discomfort, but does it always have to be that way? Emotionally Focused Therapy is a proven, evidence-based method that enhances couples' ability to gain Love and Connection through safety and security. And I would love to be that resource, coach, advocate to help partners sustain longevity in their relationship without leading to isolation or further hurt.
(470) 243-8985 View (470) 243-8985
Photo of Cumberland Counseling Centers - Lawrenceville, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Muscogee County, GA
Cumberland Counseling Centers - Lawrenceville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, AMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Join our community! We focus on: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult Life Transitions, Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships and Codependency.
Our mental health is the foundation for how we view everything: ourselves, the world around us, even God. Cumberland Counseling Services is a professional counseling center providing quality mental health care and education, to bring about transforming change to the communities that we serve. Our focus areas include couples, adults, and adolescents aged 10+. And as licensed professionals, we are committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. Our counselors will draw upon their clinical training and formal education to address each unique need.
Join our community! We focus on: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult Life Transitions, Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships and Codependency.
Our mental health is the foundation for how we view everything: ourselves, the world around us, even God. Cumberland Counseling Services is a professional counseling center providing quality mental health care and education, to bring about transforming change to the communities that we serve. Our focus areas include couples, adults, and adolescents aged 10+. And as licensed professionals, we are committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. Our counselors will draw upon their clinical training and formal education to address each unique need.
(470) 232-0349 View (470) 232-0349
Photo of Julie Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Muscogee County, GA
Julie Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Adults: Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, intergenerational trauma, emotional growth, effective boundaries, work/life balance.
Julie received her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. She earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University. Julie currently works with young adults, adults, and couples. Her collaborative style focuses on the goals of the client, cultivating a space for growth, and understanding of the client’s lived experience. Julie’s therapeutic approach is grounded in emotionally focused and collaborative theory which allows her to tailor treatment to individual needs within a wide scope of client demographics including LGBTQIA+, gender diverse individuals, and CNM partners.
Adults: Anxiety, depression, grief & loss, intergenerational trauma, emotional growth, effective boundaries, work/life balance.
Julie received her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. She earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella University. Julie currently works with young adults, adults, and couples. Her collaborative style focuses on the goals of the client, cultivating a space for growth, and understanding of the client’s lived experience. Julie’s therapeutic approach is grounded in emotionally focused and collaborative theory which allows her to tailor treatment to individual needs within a wide scope of client demographics including LGBTQIA+, gender diverse individuals, and CNM partners.
(678) 673-3160 View (678) 673-3160
Photo of DeAnna L Alexander, Pre-Licensed Professional in Muscogee County, GA
DeAnna L Alexander
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble coping with life transitions? If so, welcome to your first step towards healing. As one's life go through the "lifing" process, many individuals and couples find themselves feeling stuck, stressed, depressed, anxious, or just overwhelmed. I applaud you for taking the initiative to grow through such life challenges as I understand from my own experiences of trauma and tragedy how terrifying seeking help can be. Change is inevitable; therefore, I provide a compassionate, attentive, and empathic energy that is intended to alleviate the distress of finding, accepting, and maintaining the help that one needs.
Are you having trouble coping with life transitions? If so, welcome to your first step towards healing. As one's life go through the "lifing" process, many individuals and couples find themselves feeling stuck, stressed, depressed, anxious, or just overwhelmed. I applaud you for taking the initiative to grow through such life challenges as I understand from my own experiences of trauma and tragedy how terrifying seeking help can be. Change is inevitable; therefore, I provide a compassionate, attentive, and empathic energy that is intended to alleviate the distress of finding, accepting, and maintaining the help that one needs.
(404) 383-5067 View (404) 383-5067
Photo of Lauren DeRossette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Lauren DeRossette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
Since 2013, I have been serving clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, addiction, relationship/family conflict, depression, and anxiety. Therapy is a journey into yourself. It is choosing to step out of your comfort zone into an uncomfortable place in order to grow and heal. When we face and process our feelings and emotions, they become less overwhelming and painful. I am trauma-focused and see therapy through a lens of trauma, which is on a spectrum. I use traditional talk therapy, IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, CBT, Hypnotherapy, and somatic approaches. I provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy.
Since 2013, I have been serving clients struggling with trauma, PTSD, addiction, relationship/family conflict, depression, and anxiety. Therapy is a journey into yourself. It is choosing to step out of your comfort zone into an uncomfortable place in order to grow and heal. When we face and process our feelings and emotions, they become less overwhelming and painful. I am trauma-focused and see therapy through a lens of trauma, which is on a spectrum. I use traditional talk therapy, IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, CBT, Hypnotherapy, and somatic approaches. I provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy.
(678) 855-8764 View (678) 855-8764
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/family challenges, grief and loss, and new life transitions.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/family challenges, grief and loss, and new life transitions.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
(470) 468-2837 View (470) 468-2837
Photo of Kay Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Muscogee County, GA
Kay Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30315  (Online Only)
I specialize in dealing with the impact of depression, anxiety, grief and trauma that alters client’s lives. I help individuals, couples and families identify and work through abandonment and early attachment injuries to prevent current and future toxic relationship patterns. I am passionate about practicing a culturally specific and holistic approach to therapy.
I specialize in dealing with the impact of depression, anxiety, grief and trauma that alters client’s lives. I help individuals, couples and families identify and work through abandonment and early attachment injuries to prevent current and future toxic relationship patterns. I am passionate about practicing a culturally specific and holistic approach to therapy.
(678) 916-9773 View (678) 916-9773
Photo of Donna Elizabeth McDowell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Donna Elizabeth McDowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, attention and hyperactivity, trauma, marriage issues, relationships , codependency, grief, loss, conflict, spiritual issues, adjustment disorders and sex therapy.
I endeavor to create a warm and safe environment in which my clients can feel comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts, feelings, concerns and challenges. I value my clients input and enjoy our ability to collaborate as we work toward your mental health goals. I believe it is very important for every individual to be able to find a clinician they can connect with and feel supported by, while at the same time can challenge you, the client and encourage you to challenge yourself.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, attention and hyperactivity, trauma, marriage issues, relationships , codependency, grief, loss, conflict, spiritual issues, adjustment disorders and sex therapy.
I endeavor to create a warm and safe environment in which my clients can feel comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts, feelings, concerns and challenges. I value my clients input and enjoy our ability to collaborate as we work toward your mental health goals. I believe it is very important for every individual to be able to find a clinician they can connect with and feel supported by, while at the same time can challenge you, the client and encourage you to challenge yourself.
(678) 255-8764 View (678) 255-8764
Photo of Glenda Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Glenda Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCCTP, ASDCS, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
McDonough, GA 30253
Are you ready to embrace a life of fulfillment and break free from the shackles of past hurts and failures? I believe that true transformation is possible, and as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am dedicated to guiding individuals of all ages on their journey towards healing and growth. With a wealth of experience in diverse settings. I have had the privilege of working with couples, families, and individuals facing various challenges. Whether you are dealing with issues of abuse, infidelity, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, poor communication skills or anger, I am here to support you.
Are you ready to embrace a life of fulfillment and break free from the shackles of past hurts and failures? I believe that true transformation is possible, and as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am dedicated to guiding individuals of all ages on their journey towards healing and growth. With a wealth of experience in diverse settings. I have had the privilege of working with couples, families, and individuals facing various challenges. Whether you are dealing with issues of abuse, infidelity, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, poor communication skills or anger, I am here to support you.
(678) 839-7216 View (678) 839-7216
Photo of Suzette D Blount, Licensed Professional Counselor in Muscogee County, GA
Suzette D Blount
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallas, GA 30157  (Online Only)
Do you feel depressed, anxious, or are unable to identify what is really going on with you? Maybe you need someone to listen to you or help solve the problems you have been dealing with for some time now. Do you feel hopeless and as if the world is on your shoulders? Experiencing a change or life altering situation? Counseling can help bring a new perspective and teach you different ways of solving a problem or go through a crisis. I am able to provide a person-centered, and integrative style of counseling. I offer online and telephone counseling.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, or are unable to identify what is really going on with you? Maybe you need someone to listen to you or help solve the problems you have been dealing with for some time now. Do you feel hopeless and as if the world is on your shoulders? Experiencing a change or life altering situation? Counseling can help bring a new perspective and teach you different ways of solving a problem or go through a crisis. I am able to provide a person-centered, and integrative style of counseling. I offer online and telephone counseling.
(678) 929-5234 View (678) 929-5234
Photo of Meg McLeroy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Muscogee County, GA
Meg McLeroy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
Waitlist for new clients
Do you nurture fear or hope? Investing in therapy is a positive step towards facing your fears and uncovering new possibilities. Identify insights, wisdom and truth whether you are struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief or major life transitions. We'll clarify your values and develop custom skills and tools to support change. Integrating experiential interventions with systems theory and mindfulness strategies helps you understand new ways for dealing with challenges.
Do you nurture fear or hope? Investing in therapy is a positive step towards facing your fears and uncovering new possibilities. Identify insights, wisdom and truth whether you are struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief or major life transitions. We'll clarify your values and develop custom skills and tools to support change. Integrating experiential interventions with systems theory and mindfulness strategies helps you understand new ways for dealing with challenges.
(404) 721-3596 View (404) 721-3596
Photo of Caroline Hamner, Pre-Licensed Professional in Muscogee County, GA
Caroline Hamner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
My therapeutic approach incorporates components of experiential therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, & emotional focused therapy (EFT). I understand that everyone engages with therapy uniquely, which is why I offer a range of methods, including art therapy. These modalities tap into the power of creativity, providing you with alternative ways to process feelings and communicate your inner world. My skill set includes working with challenges such as life changes, depression, anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, navigating ADHD, OCD, relationship issues, bettering communication, issues within a family, & personal growth.
My therapeutic approach incorporates components of experiential therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, & emotional focused therapy (EFT). I understand that everyone engages with therapy uniquely, which is why I offer a range of methods, including art therapy. These modalities tap into the power of creativity, providing you with alternative ways to process feelings and communicate your inner world. My skill set includes working with challenges such as life changes, depression, anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, navigating ADHD, OCD, relationship issues, bettering communication, issues within a family, & personal growth.
(404) 882-7830 x207 View (404) 882-7830 x207

See more therapy options for Muscogee County

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.