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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mari Love Consulting Services LLC.,, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union City, GA
Mari Love Consulting Services LLC.,
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30354
I specialize in individual counseling, couples and family counseling, LGBTQ+, trauma survivors, PTSD struggling with anxiety, depression and life/personal stress.
My goal is to help each client meet their mental health needs to be in a better space then they were before they started counseling. Mental health is mental wealth.
I specialize in individual counseling, couples and family counseling, LGBTQ+, trauma survivors, PTSD struggling with anxiety, depression and life/personal stress.
My goal is to help each client meet their mental health needs to be in a better space then they were before they started counseling. Mental health is mental wealth.
(678) 944-9293 View (678) 944-9293
Photo of Jenay Hicks, Counselor in Union City, GA
Jenay Hicks
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
Waitlist for new clients
I will teach you about anxiety, depression, trauma, and how your self-protective strategies keep you safe.
As a client-centered therapist, I believe in the human capacity to "self-actualize." In psychology, self-actualization is achieved when you're able to reach your full potential. I have learned that we are more alike than different in this work. Most people want to feel seen, heard, loved, valued, protected, and connected. Where one is missing, there is usually an amplification in anxiety. I am in the empathy business. I use connection and evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients clarify their "why" and navigate a path to deeper fulfillment—professionally and personally.
I will teach you about anxiety, depression, trauma, and how your self-protective strategies keep you safe.
As a client-centered therapist, I believe in the human capacity to "self-actualize." In psychology, self-actualization is achieved when you're able to reach your full potential. I have learned that we are more alike than different in this work. Most people want to feel seen, heard, loved, valued, protected, and connected. Where one is missing, there is usually an amplification in anxiety. I am in the empathy business. I use connection and evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients clarify their "why" and navigate a path to deeper fulfillment—professionally and personally.
(404) 941-7326 View (404) 941-7326
Photo of Andre Lloyd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union City, GA
Andre Lloyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CPT
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
I believe therapy helps us understand the power of the mind. This is especially useful when we feel disconnected, marginalized, or stigmatized. When we feel this way, learning how the mind channels this information through thoughts, feelings, emotions, and perceptions, can influence us to recognize our own cognitive processes and how they impact our life. If we attend to our cognitive processes in a healthy way, it may lead to regulation of mood, clarity, balance and feelings of peace. We start to evolve and accept certain things about ourselves. We begin to feel at peace from within. I help my clients through this process.
I believe therapy helps us understand the power of the mind. This is especially useful when we feel disconnected, marginalized, or stigmatized. When we feel this way, learning how the mind channels this information through thoughts, feelings, emotions, and perceptions, can influence us to recognize our own cognitive processes and how they impact our life. If we attend to our cognitive processes in a healthy way, it may lead to regulation of mood, clarity, balance and feelings of peace. We start to evolve and accept certain things about ourselves. We begin to feel at peace from within. I help my clients through this process.
(678) 384-4512 View (678) 384-4512

Online Therapists

Photo of Miriam Shapiro, Psychologist in Union City, GA
Miriam Shapiro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides individual therapy, couples counseling, and psychological/cognitive assessment. I enjoy working with adults of all backgrounds and ages across the lifespan. I utilize a holistic and integrative approach, drawing upon the techniques of skill-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, and DBT, as well as more theoretical and attachment based therapies like mindfulness and somatic psychotherapy. I address issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, emotional regulation, work life balance, relationship issues, childhood trauma, low self-esteem, identity issues, and personal growth.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides individual therapy, couples counseling, and psychological/cognitive assessment. I enjoy working with adults of all backgrounds and ages across the lifespan. I utilize a holistic and integrative approach, drawing upon the techniques of skill-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, and DBT, as well as more theoretical and attachment based therapies like mindfulness and somatic psychotherapy. I address issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, emotional regulation, work life balance, relationship issues, childhood trauma, low self-esteem, identity issues, and personal growth.
(470) 946-6379 View (470) 946-6379
Photo of Gilly Kahn, Psychologist in Union City, GA
Gilly Kahn
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
Life is a puzzle, and you may find yourself scrambling to find its pieces if you struggle with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, or parenting stress. I am here to tell you that you do not need to feel alone in this, whenever, wherever. As a licensed psychologist on the Concierge Psychology team located in Atlanta, I am happy to provide flexible therapy sessions ranging from Telehealth to in-home visits.
Life is a puzzle, and you may find yourself scrambling to find its pieces if you struggle with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, or parenting stress. I am here to tell you that you do not need to feel alone in this, whenever, wherever. As a licensed psychologist on the Concierge Psychology team located in Atlanta, I am happy to provide flexible therapy sessions ranging from Telehealth to in-home visits.
(470) 625-5995 View (470) 625-5995
Photo of Jacob Sobel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union City, GA
Jacob Sobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be very challenging. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can cause you to feel stuck, anxious and depressed. You may have noticed changes in your relationships, work, mood or self-esteem. Feeling understood and supported is of highest importance when navigating through life challenges. As such, I am dedicated to protecting your trust and providing you with emotional safety as you undertake the vulnerable yet enriching journey of therapy.
Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with and trust can be very challenging. Painful life experiences, past trauma and current situations can cause you to feel stuck, anxious and depressed. You may have noticed changes in your relationships, work, mood or self-esteem. Feeling understood and supported is of highest importance when navigating through life challenges. As such, I am dedicated to protecting your trust and providing you with emotional safety as you undertake the vulnerable yet enriching journey of therapy.
(678) 825-8544 View (678) 825-8544
Photo of Jessica Karell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union City, GA
Jessica Karell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suwanee, GA 30024
It's hard enough being a teen or young adult, but when you add in anxiety, depression, or trauma, it can feel impossible.
I help nerdy cool awkward teens and young adults navigate through a world that doesn't seem to fit. My clients struggle like you do. Despite being smart, funny, and knowing the ins and outs of their favorite games, life is hard. When they first come in, they tell me that they don't need therapy. They explain that other people don't get them, blame them, and expect them to be something they're not. They can't figure out where life went from sometimes fun/sometimes boring to unmanageable and overwhelming. They talk about their family not caring and not really having friends. They struggle to communicate with pretty much everyone.
It's hard enough being a teen or young adult, but when you add in anxiety, depression, or trauma, it can feel impossible.
I help nerdy cool awkward teens and young adults navigate through a world that doesn't seem to fit. My clients struggle like you do. Despite being smart, funny, and knowing the ins and outs of their favorite games, life is hard. When they first come in, they tell me that they don't need therapy. They explain that other people don't get them, blame them, and expect them to be something they're not. They can't figure out where life went from sometimes fun/sometimes boring to unmanageable and overwhelming. They talk about their family not caring and not really having friends. They struggle to communicate with pretty much everyone.
(470) 260-7101 View (470) 260-7101
Photo of Joyce Kohlenberg Kinnard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union City, GA
Joyce Kohlenberg Kinnard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
My clinical experience includes individuals with anxiety, chronic pain, depression, grief, low self-esteem, cancer, and aging issues.
Are you feeling a lot of anxiety? Having problems with relationships? I am here to offer a calm and supportive space for you. My therapy practice is rooted in years of experience working with people as an attorney--now I enjoy supporting people on their path towards personal healing and growth. We are living in stressful times; I look forward to working with you as you discover more clarity and strength.
My clinical experience includes individuals with anxiety, chronic pain, depression, grief, low self-esteem, cancer, and aging issues.
Are you feeling a lot of anxiety? Having problems with relationships? I am here to offer a calm and supportive space for you. My therapy practice is rooted in years of experience working with people as an attorney--now I enjoy supporting people on their path towards personal healing and growth. We are living in stressful times; I look forward to working with you as you discover more clarity and strength.
(404) 994-3572 View (404) 994-3572
Photo of Nancy V Brown in Union City, GA
Nancy V Brown
MA, CPS-MH, PLC
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019
I have many years of experience working with teens & adults who struggle with feeling stuck, trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce, eating disorders, sexual abuse, child abuse, Incest, family conflict, addiction, grief, pregnancy loss, suicide loss survivor, parenting concerns, blended families, forgiveness, relationship issues, infidelity, spiritual warfare.
Hablo español! I'm a mental health professional & life coach. TF-CBT trained, delivering psycho education. Religion is not imposed on anyone unless asked, I meet my clients where they are & provide a safe empathetic space free from judgment. I wrote a recovery book in 2017 called "My Costa Rican Humming Bird Sings, Breaking The Bondage And Answering The Call" to help people through their recovery & healing journey. I offer online & in person sessions as well as consulting, staff trainings for corporations in diversity/inclusion, near death experiences, suicide/mental health support & helping them walk through their healing.
I have many years of experience working with teens & adults who struggle with feeling stuck, trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce, eating disorders, sexual abuse, child abuse, Incest, family conflict, addiction, grief, pregnancy loss, suicide loss survivor, parenting concerns, blended families, forgiveness, relationship issues, infidelity, spiritual warfare.
Hablo español! I'm a mental health professional & life coach. TF-CBT trained, delivering psycho education. Religion is not imposed on anyone unless asked, I meet my clients where they are & provide a safe empathetic space free from judgment. I wrote a recovery book in 2017 called "My Costa Rican Humming Bird Sings, Breaking The Bondage And Answering The Call" to help people through their recovery & healing journey. I offer online & in person sessions as well as consulting, staff trainings for corporations in diversity/inclusion, near death experiences, suicide/mental health support & helping them walk through their healing.
(678) 607-8662 View (678) 607-8662
Photo of Hilary Shana Woodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union City, GA
Hilary Shana Woodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30068
My primary speciality is working with clients who have endured Narcissistic Abuse in a relationship, parents, & adult children. Embarking on the therapy journey can be overwhelming, yet hopeful when ready to invest in yourself. I will work with you collaboratively to assist in the exploration of ways to remove uncomfortable symptoms, alleviate emotional pain, increase self awareness and promote personal growth for positive change with use of trauma therapy. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, Narcissistic Abuse, divorce and coparenting with a narcissist.
My primary speciality is working with clients who have endured Narcissistic Abuse in a relationship, parents, & adult children. Embarking on the therapy journey can be overwhelming, yet hopeful when ready to invest in yourself. I will work with you collaboratively to assist in the exploration of ways to remove uncomfortable symptoms, alleviate emotional pain, increase self awareness and promote personal growth for positive change with use of trauma therapy. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, Narcissistic Abuse, divorce and coparenting with a narcissist.
(678) 293-7528 View (678) 293-7528
Photo of Rena Diamond, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union City, GA
Rena Diamond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, CCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression can cloud our judgment, closing us off from ourselves and others. Perhaps you have achieved your goals, yet still struggle with feeling “not good enough.” You may feel paralyzed, unable to move forward, continually engaged in self-destructive patterns of thoughts and behavior. What would it be like to quiet those anxious thoughts, experience lasting and genuine peace, and make positive change? Together we can increase your self-understanding, build resiliency, find meaning, navigate challenges, and facilitate joy and growth. My approach is genuine, down-to-earth, warm, insightful, playful, and compassionate.
Anxiety and depression can cloud our judgment, closing us off from ourselves and others. Perhaps you have achieved your goals, yet still struggle with feeling “not good enough.” You may feel paralyzed, unable to move forward, continually engaged in self-destructive patterns of thoughts and behavior. What would it be like to quiet those anxious thoughts, experience lasting and genuine peace, and make positive change? Together we can increase your self-understanding, build resiliency, find meaning, navigate challenges, and facilitate joy and growth. My approach is genuine, down-to-earth, warm, insightful, playful, and compassionate.
(470) 206-2233 x9 View (470) 206-2233 x9
Photo of Judith Ashworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union City, GA
Judith Ashworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30340
Hello. My name is Judith Ashworth, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I just retired from the Wellstar hospital system, where I had been working for 20 years, mostly as a behavioral health and clinician. I ran groups and provided assessment and individual brief therapy on their inpatient unit or but within Path, I am looking forward to doing rational emotive behavioral therapy or REBT. This will provide quicker progress. I have been pretty successful working on addiction, depression, and OCD. I feel comfortable working with severe psychiatric disorders as well. But I know that's not what this forum is all about.
Hello. My name is Judith Ashworth, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I just retired from the Wellstar hospital system, where I had been working for 20 years, mostly as a behavioral health and clinician. I ran groups and provided assessment and individual brief therapy on their inpatient unit or but within Path, I am looking forward to doing rational emotive behavioral therapy or REBT. This will provide quicker progress. I have been pretty successful working on addiction, depression, and OCD. I feel comfortable working with severe psychiatric disorders as well. But I know that's not what this forum is all about.
(770) 501-7175 View (770) 501-7175
Photo of Julie Conrad, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union City, GA
Julie Conrad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075
You are ready to make some positive changes in your life, but not sure where to start. Perhaps you feel stuck in your relationships, or are going through a transition. Maybe you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or depression and want to learn to manage better, develop new coping skills, feel more in control of your life. You wonder, when did it all get so complicated? Or maybe you are a parent and very worried about your teen. You want to be the one to help them, but at a loss as to how, and you would like to find someone they can trust and connect with, open up to, and also help guide you in parenting them through these hard times.
You are ready to make some positive changes in your life, but not sure where to start. Perhaps you feel stuck in your relationships, or are going through a transition. Maybe you feel overwhelmed by anxiety or depression and want to learn to manage better, develop new coping skills, feel more in control of your life. You wonder, when did it all get so complicated? Or maybe you are a parent and very worried about your teen. You want to be the one to help them, but at a loss as to how, and you would like to find someone they can trust and connect with, open up to, and also help guide you in parenting them through these hard times.
(770) 648-3315 View (770) 648-3315
Photo of Rebecca Leslie, Psychologist in Union City, GA
Rebecca Leslie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I work with clients who want to feel better about their bodies or improve their relationship with food. I specialize in emotional eating, binge eating, yo-yo dieting, eating disorders, and weight concerns. I also work with many clients with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and relationship struggles.
I work with clients who want to feel better about their bodies or improve their relationship with food. I specialize in emotional eating, binge eating, yo-yo dieting, eating disorders, and weight concerns. I also work with many clients with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and relationship struggles.
(678) 582-1538 View (678) 582-1538
Photo of Sarah Meng, Counselor in Union City, GA
Sarah Meng
Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I bring a decade of experience, training, and research in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Overwhelmed and grieving the state of the world? Struggling with placing the burden of other people's expectations on yourself? Seeking skilled, non-judgmental support that actually makes a difference? I've got you! I help people connect with themselves, significant others, and community so they can meaningfully engage in life. I am known for my warmth and commitment to high quality care, especially with clients who are queer, trans, neurodivergent, or in a larger body. I am a Health at Every Size clinician.⁠⁠ My practice is culturally affirming and anti-oppressive. I'm licensed in GA, SC, FL, IA, and CO.
I bring a decade of experience, training, and research in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Overwhelmed and grieving the state of the world? Struggling with placing the burden of other people's expectations on yourself? Seeking skilled, non-judgmental support that actually makes a difference? I've got you! I help people connect with themselves, significant others, and community so they can meaningfully engage in life. I am known for my warmth and commitment to high quality care, especially with clients who are queer, trans, neurodivergent, or in a larger body. I am a Health at Every Size clinician.⁠⁠ My practice is culturally affirming and anti-oppressive. I'm licensed in GA, SC, FL, IA, and CO.
(404) 737-6983 View (404) 737-6983
Photo of Joelle Solomon, Master Social Worker in Union City, GA
Joelle Solomon
Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30345
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, depression, and various addictions.
“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone.” -Lisa Olivera. Do you find yourself constantly worrying, stressed, or like you are trapped, and you cannot seem to escape? Do you sometimes feel like no one understands you? You do not have to struggle in silence. I am pleased that you have taken the first step in addressing your concerns. In my practice, I provide a safe and non-judgemental space for you to be able to share whatever is on your mind and where we can explore your concerns together. Let’s sit down and talk!
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, depression, and various addictions.
“Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone.” -Lisa Olivera. Do you find yourself constantly worrying, stressed, or like you are trapped, and you cannot seem to escape? Do you sometimes feel like no one understands you? You do not have to struggle in silence. I am pleased that you have taken the first step in addressing your concerns. In my practice, I provide a safe and non-judgemental space for you to be able to share whatever is on your mind and where we can explore your concerns together. Let’s sit down and talk!
(404) 737-2052 View (404) 737-2052
Photo of Dr. Carolyn Brennan, Psychologist in Union City, GA
Dr. Carolyn Brennan
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, or who are going through challenging life transitions. I also specialize in treating perinatal mental health concerns. The clients I work with are typically looking for coping skills that they can use to navigate life's challenges. I use evidence-based treatments that are supported by research, while also working to create a warm and supportive therapy environment. In addition to my work as a therapist, I'm a part-time instructor at Georgia State University, where I teach doctoral students in clinical psychology.
I work with clients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, or who are going through challenging life transitions. I also specialize in treating perinatal mental health concerns. The clients I work with are typically looking for coping skills that they can use to navigate life's challenges. I use evidence-based treatments that are supported by research, while also working to create a warm and supportive therapy environment. In addition to my work as a therapist, I'm a part-time instructor at Georgia State University, where I teach doctoral students in clinical psychology.
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Photo of Ashley Marx, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union City, GA
Ashley Marx
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other emotional challenges, we are here to help you navigate these difficult emotions.
Welcome to Self-Led Counseling! We are a team of dedicated and compassionate therapists who provide counseling to individuals across all age groups, including children, teens, and adults. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges. Our therapists work under the supervision and guidance of Ashley Marx, LCSW who is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Polyvagal Theory and has over two decades of experience.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other emotional challenges, we are here to help you navigate these difficult emotions.
Welcome to Self-Led Counseling! We are a team of dedicated and compassionate therapists who provide counseling to individuals across all age groups, including children, teens, and adults. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges. Our therapists work under the supervision and guidance of Ashley Marx, LCSW who is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Polyvagal Theory and has over two decades of experience.
(404) 620-2112 View (404) 620-2112
Photo of Eliana Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Union City, GA
Eliana Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I have experience with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders.
I believe therapy works best when the therapist and client work together to identify, understand, and work through the issues in their lives. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who studied at Brenau University. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults. I'm passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. I believe in partnering with my clients to assist them in understanding their emotions and behaviors. I am trained in cognitive behavioral techniques, and I like to use creative interventions in addition to open dialogues in session to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all of my clients.
I have experience with the LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders.
I believe therapy works best when the therapist and client work together to identify, understand, and work through the issues in their lives. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who studied at Brenau University. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults. I'm passionate about working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. I believe in partnering with my clients to assist them in understanding their emotions and behaviors. I am trained in cognitive behavioral techniques, and I like to use creative interventions in addition to open dialogues in session to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all of my clients.
(678) 722-8956 View (678) 722-8956
Photo of Gail Laura Weinstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Union City, GA
Gail Laura Weinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, GA 30319
My name is Gail, and I have worked with children, individuals and families for almost two decades! I specialize in love/relationship addiction, abandonment issues, existential crisis, depression and anxiety. I provide non-judgmental guidance and support to my clients as they work towards healing their childhood wounds, show up authentically as they are, and connect more deeply with their loved ones and themselves. For more information, visit my personal website at Consciousconnectionsatlanta.com; from there you can make an appointment. Also check out my zoc doc reviews/ratings (clients are my highest priority!)
My name is Gail, and I have worked with children, individuals and families for almost two decades! I specialize in love/relationship addiction, abandonment issues, existential crisis, depression and anxiety. I provide non-judgmental guidance and support to my clients as they work towards healing their childhood wounds, show up authentically as they are, and connect more deeply with their loved ones and themselves. For more information, visit my personal website at Consciousconnectionsatlanta.com; from there you can make an appointment. Also check out my zoc doc reviews/ratings (clients are my highest priority!)
(678) 726-5446 View (678) 726-5446

See more therapy options for Union City

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.