Depression Therapists in Story County, IA

Photo of Martha Norton, Counselor in Story County, IA
Martha Norton
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCDP-D, IADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, and Adoption Issues.
I have over 20 years of experience as a counselor. I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experience and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiencial puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, and Adoption Issues.
I have over 20 years of experience as a counselor. I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experience and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiencial puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
(515) 462-0950 View (515) 462-0950
Photo of Courtney Clippert-Treadwell, Psychologist in Story County, IA
Courtney Clippert-Treadwell
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, relational and familial concerns, and identity-related concerns (e.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, relational and familial concerns, and identity-related concerns (e.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
(515) 575-9482 View (515) 575-9482
Photo of Kylie Russell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Story County, IA
Kylie Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
(319) 601-8078 View (319) 601-8078
Photo of Sue Stidwell, LMHC, Counselor in Story County, IA
Sue Stidwell, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I enjoy working with college age and above through older adult. Depression, anxiety, trauma and loss issues, ADHD are all areas of concern of clients that we can focus on together. Solution focused therapy, brief therapy, cognitive therapy, family systems therapy are all important as therapy approaches, with the best being truly listening to my clients to determine what they believe is possible through therapy. I have experiences with DMACC students, parenting classes, anger management classes for thirteen years, as well as mediating parenting plans for divorcing couples. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa.
I enjoy working with college age and above through older adult. Depression, anxiety, trauma and loss issues, ADHD are all areas of concern of clients that we can focus on together. Solution focused therapy, brief therapy, cognitive therapy, family systems therapy are all important as therapy approaches, with the best being truly listening to my clients to determine what they believe is possible through therapy. I have experiences with DMACC students, parenting classes, anger management classes for thirteen years, as well as mediating parenting plans for divorcing couples. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa.
(515) 599-3168 View (515) 599-3168
Photo of Monique Jeanette Maldonado, Counselor in Story County, IA
Monique Jeanette Maldonado
Counselor, MACP, IADC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Many of my clients have experienced grief and loss and simply need support working through the stages of grief. I have also served children and families. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Many of my clients have experienced grief and loss and simply need support working through the stages of grief. I have also served children and families. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
(515) 500-2103 View (515) 500-2103
Photo of Morgan Fielder, Counselor in Story County, IA
Morgan Fielder
Counselor, MS, NCC, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, and relationship concerns.
Making the decision to reach out to a counselor for the first time is a challenging step to take. I provide a safe environment for my clients to explore their reasoning for seeking mental health counseling services by actively listening to their concerns and needs in order to assist them in the process of sorting through various life challenges. I enjoy listening to each individual's story and encourage them to use their strengths as a tool for overcoming these life challenges and building a safe environment for client's to meet their goals and to make a treatment plan tailored specifically to them.
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, and relationship concerns.
Making the decision to reach out to a counselor for the first time is a challenging step to take. I provide a safe environment for my clients to explore their reasoning for seeking mental health counseling services by actively listening to their concerns and needs in order to assist them in the process of sorting through various life challenges. I enjoy listening to each individual's story and encourage them to use their strengths as a tool for overcoming these life challenges and building a safe environment for client's to meet their goals and to make a treatment plan tailored specifically to them.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Thomas Earl Loney, Counselor in Story County, IA
Thomas Earl Loney
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
We will work on how thoughts and emotions interact, and how a person can combat negative thoughts to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Does life feel like a struggle everyday, filled with with low motivation, fear, or sadness. The good news is that life does not have to be this way! We will work on disputing negative beliefs, and learning techniques that help create a positive energy and mindset that makes it possible to live a fulfilling life. I utilize an integration of cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, and solution focused therapy to help you identify the thoughts, emotions and behaviors interfering with your ability to be successful and achieve the balance and self-esteem to successfully meet the challenges in life, work, and relationships.
We will work on how thoughts and emotions interact, and how a person can combat negative thoughts to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Does life feel like a struggle everyday, filled with with low motivation, fear, or sadness. The good news is that life does not have to be this way! We will work on disputing negative beliefs, and learning techniques that help create a positive energy and mindset that makes it possible to live a fulfilling life. I utilize an integration of cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, and solution focused therapy to help you identify the thoughts, emotions and behaviors interfering with your ability to be successful and achieve the balance and self-esteem to successfully meet the challenges in life, work, and relationships.
(515) 361-7372 View (515) 361-7372
Photo of Jake Pierce-Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Story County, IA
Jake Pierce-Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
(218) 343-3406 View (218) 343-3406
Photo of Nicole Scherle Scheidel, Counselor in Story County, IA
Nicole Scherle Scheidel
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
(515) 368-8284 View (515) 368-8284
Photo of Red Couch Counseling LLC., Counselor in Story County, IA
Red Couch Counseling LLC.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
I actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
(515) 705-0288 View (515) 705-0288
Photo of Des Moines Therapy and Consulting, PC, Counselor in Story County, IA
Des Moines Therapy and Consulting, PC
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Depression; Stress Management; Chronic Pain ; Long Term Illness; Cancer; Adjustment Disorders; Anxiety Disorders: Panic Disorder/ Generalized Anxiety/ Test Anxiety; Post Concussive Syndrome/Mild TBI; PTSD: Marriage Counseling, EMDR.
Ames | Des Moines Therapy clinical team provides therapy approaches and techniques which are evidence-based. Dr. Amy Mooney, PhD, LMHC, NCC, ACS, 22 yrs experience, founder and owner. Dr. Terry Augspurger, MD, DLFAPA has over 40 yrs experience in psychiatry. Dr. Richard Stapleton, EdD, NCC, LMHC (IA), LPCC (MN), ACS, BC-TMH, CCTP, Dr. Charles D. Mooney, MD, MPH, Diana Christensen, MS, TLMHC, Dr. Beth Augspurger, PhD, tLMHC, Madelynn Dailey, MS, tLMHC, Brooke Sanders MS, TLMHC, Kelsi York, MS, tLMHC,
Depression; Stress Management; Chronic Pain ; Long Term Illness; Cancer; Adjustment Disorders; Anxiety Disorders: Panic Disorder/ Generalized Anxiety/ Test Anxiety; Post Concussive Syndrome/Mild TBI; PTSD: Marriage Counseling, EMDR.
Ames | Des Moines Therapy clinical team provides therapy approaches and techniques which are evidence-based. Dr. Amy Mooney, PhD, LMHC, NCC, ACS, 22 yrs experience, founder and owner. Dr. Terry Augspurger, MD, DLFAPA has over 40 yrs experience in psychiatry. Dr. Richard Stapleton, EdD, NCC, LMHC (IA), LPCC (MN), ACS, BC-TMH, CCTP, Dr. Charles D. Mooney, MD, MPH, Diana Christensen, MS, TLMHC, Dr. Beth Augspurger, PhD, tLMHC, Madelynn Dailey, MS, tLMHC, Brooke Sanders MS, TLMHC, Kelsi York, MS, tLMHC,
(515) 519-3645 View (515) 519-3645
Photo of Wild Blossom Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Story County, IA
Wild Blossom Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
My skill set is versatile, suitable for addressing a wide range of issues including trauma, grief/loss, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people-pleasing behavior, self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. This list is not exhaustive, and I invite you to reach out if you're unsure whether we'd be a good fit. Above all, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and encourage you to connect if you seek the same. In therapy, I adopt a relaxed, client-centered, and adaptable approach tailored to your individual needs. Your well-being is paramount, and I'm here to support you through your journey.
My skill set is versatile, suitable for addressing a wide range of issues including trauma, grief/loss, relationship challenges, perfectionism, people-pleasing behavior, self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. This list is not exhaustive, and I invite you to reach out if you're unsure whether we'd be a good fit. Above all, I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and encourage you to connect if you seek the same. In therapy, I adopt a relaxed, client-centered, and adaptable approach tailored to your individual needs. Your well-being is paramount, and I'm here to support you through your journey.
(515) 305-2823 View (515) 305-2823
Photo of Hannah Vestal, Counselor in Story County, IA
Hannah Vestal
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults on issues related to grief and loss, depression, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
Hi, my name is Hannah (or Han). I have been working in the field of mental health for the past several years across several disciplines including residential treatment, inpatient hospitalization, substance use rehabilitation, and crisis counseling. No matter what the position, I found myself deeply drawn to how sitting with someone in darkness can make the darkness feel not as lonely. My job isn’t necessarily to make the darkness go away; in fact, darkness is a part of the natural cycle of life. However, I am committed to creating a space where we can sit with hard things and navigate where to go, together.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults on issues related to grief and loss, depression, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
Hi, my name is Hannah (or Han). I have been working in the field of mental health for the past several years across several disciplines including residential treatment, inpatient hospitalization, substance use rehabilitation, and crisis counseling. No matter what the position, I found myself deeply drawn to how sitting with someone in darkness can make the darkness feel not as lonely. My job isn’t necessarily to make the darkness go away; in fact, darkness is a part of the natural cycle of life. However, I am committed to creating a space where we can sit with hard things and navigate where to go, together.
(515) 293-5856 View (515) 293-5856
Photo of Eric Eittreim, Counselor in Story County, IA
Eric Eittreim
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma, but my diverse approach allows me to help clients experiencing a variety of other concerns as well.
You have taken a courageous step on the path to healing by seeking out help, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. As a therapist, I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, together we can find ways to help you heal and grow! My therapeutic approach is client centered and aims to provide a safe environment in which clients feel accepted, supported, and encouraged. We will work collaboratively to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and work towards making progress on those goals in and outside of therapy sessions.
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma, but my diverse approach allows me to help clients experiencing a variety of other concerns as well.
You have taken a courageous step on the path to healing by seeking out help, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. As a therapist, I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, together we can find ways to help you heal and grow! My therapeutic approach is client centered and aims to provide a safe environment in which clients feel accepted, supported, and encouraged. We will work collaboratively to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and work towards making progress on those goals in and outside of therapy sessions.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Jordan Woolman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Story County, IA
Jordan Woolman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50011
I primarily work with those suffering from perinatal and postpartum struggles, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship distress, trauma, adjustment disorders, substance abuse issues, & life transitions/stressors.
I strive to help others feel empowered and to be able cope with their mental health and life in general. We will work together so that you can begin to heal, learn how to keep growing and improving yourself and work towards your goals. Everyone needs additional support at times in their lives that is neutral, non-judgmental, and unbiased to help get through life's trials & tribulations. My goal is to meet you where you are at and be a support to you.
I primarily work with those suffering from perinatal and postpartum struggles, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship distress, trauma, adjustment disorders, substance abuse issues, & life transitions/stressors.
I strive to help others feel empowered and to be able cope with their mental health and life in general. We will work together so that you can begin to heal, learn how to keep growing and improving yourself and work towards your goals. Everyone needs additional support at times in their lives that is neutral, non-judgmental, and unbiased to help get through life's trials & tribulations. My goal is to meet you where you are at and be a support to you.
(515) 305-3734 View (515) 305-3734
Photo of Thomas Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Story County, IA
Thomas Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I often think of my role as one who guides clients through their experience of being 'lost in the woods' of their psychological space. Symptoms of being lost in this way are various sorts of anxiety, depression, a sense of meaninglessness, and a feeling of paralysis or just simply being stuck. I help clients minimize their needless suffering, interpret the valuable information the symptoms are presenting, with the ultimate goal of helping them reorient themselves to a more valued, purposeful experience in the world.
I often think of my role as one who guides clients through their experience of being 'lost in the woods' of their psychological space. Symptoms of being lost in this way are various sorts of anxiety, depression, a sense of meaninglessness, and a feeling of paralysis or just simply being stuck. I help clients minimize their needless suffering, interpret the valuable information the symptoms are presenting, with the ultimate goal of helping them reorient themselves to a more valued, purposeful experience in the world.
(515) 585-1339 View (515) 585-1339
Photo of Kay Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Story County, IA
Kay Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
In addition to the specialties above, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues.
We all have a self that we present to the world, and then we have our authentic self. I am passionate about helping my clients find and become more of their truest, authentic selves. I want to get to know who you really are; your strengths, struggles, and everything in between. Your story is important and worthy of being shared. And by doing so, you can start to heal and find clarity in it.
In addition to the specialties above, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues.
We all have a self that we present to the world, and then we have our authentic self. I am passionate about helping my clients find and become more of their truest, authentic selves. I want to get to know who you really are; your strengths, struggles, and everything in between. Your story is important and worthy of being shared. And by doing so, you can start to heal and find clarity in it.
(515) 523-7296 View (515) 523-7296
Photo of Lisa Witter, Counselor in Story County, IA
Lisa Witter
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist and licensed counselor in Ames, IA. I offer in-person and virtual sessions for women ages 18+. I specialize in helping you overcome anxiety, depression, achieve personal goals and be more empowered. Enjoy better relationships, confidence and overall vitality. Learn effective strategies a stronger inner guidance. You'll be able to feel peaceful, creative and connected through challenges. I also offer parent coaching for families with children ages 2-25. Contact me, or sign up on my website, for your free initial consultation.
I am a therapist and licensed counselor in Ames, IA. I offer in-person and virtual sessions for women ages 18+. I specialize in helping you overcome anxiety, depression, achieve personal goals and be more empowered. Enjoy better relationships, confidence and overall vitality. Learn effective strategies a stronger inner guidance. You'll be able to feel peaceful, creative and connected through challenges. I also offer parent coaching for families with children ages 2-25. Contact me, or sign up on my website, for your free initial consultation.
(515) 827-2593 View (515) 827-2593
Photo of ABCD Therapy & Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Story County, IA
ABCD Therapy & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huxley, IA 50124  (Online Only)
We are a team of highly skilled folks who serve a wide variety of client needs. Our agency specifically focuses on support people who have struggled with trauma or complex trauma needs, including child sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, religious trauma, refugee experiences and survivors of torture. We also support clients who are navigating key identity struggles including transgender and gender diverse clients, racial identity and trauma, grief and loss, and relationship and life transitions. We are experts in multicultural care, and in experiences of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and BPD.
We are a team of highly skilled folks who serve a wide variety of client needs. Our agency specifically focuses on support people who have struggled with trauma or complex trauma needs, including child sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, religious trauma, refugee experiences and survivors of torture. We also support clients who are navigating key identity struggles including transgender and gender diverse clients, racial identity and trauma, grief and loss, and relationship and life transitions. We are experts in multicultural care, and in experiences of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and BPD.
(515) 824-5002 View (515) 824-5002
Photo of Meredith Francom, Counselor in Story County, IA
Meredith Francom
Counselor, MA, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience helping clients address issues related to life transitions, self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, and identity exploration, among others.
I truly believe that forming a genuine connection is where the magic happens in counseling. My whole approach revolves around building a strong bond that paves the way for healing. I make it a point to create a safe and supportive space where you can be your true self and feel totally accepted. We'll team up to help you understand who you are, dig into how the past shapes your present, look at how different systems affect your well-being, and learn strategies and skills for moving forward.
I have experience helping clients address issues related to life transitions, self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, and identity exploration, among others.
I truly believe that forming a genuine connection is where the magic happens in counseling. My whole approach revolves around building a strong bond that paves the way for healing. I make it a point to create a safe and supportive space where you can be your true self and feel totally accepted. We'll team up to help you understand who you are, dig into how the past shapes your present, look at how different systems affect your well-being, and learn strategies and skills for moving forward.
(515) 852-5800 View (515) 852-5800

See more therapy options for Story 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.