Depression Therapists in Carmel, IN

Photo of Amber Colt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Amber Colt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience with those struggling with anxiety and depression, as well as those on the autism spectrum.
It can be daunting to begin or resume therapy and I make it a priority to recognize this and provide a supportive environment. Whether you are navigating a specific stressful situation or seeking to improve the quality of your life or relationships, feeling accepted, understood and respected is imperative. Working together, we will identify what is important to you and explore how best to achieve your goals.
I have extensive experience with those struggling with anxiety and depression, as well as those on the autism spectrum.
It can be daunting to begin or resume therapy and I make it a priority to recognize this and provide a supportive environment. Whether you are navigating a specific stressful situation or seeking to improve the quality of your life or relationships, feeling accepted, understood and respected is imperative. Working together, we will identify what is important to you and explore how best to achieve your goals.
(317) 483-7582 View (317) 483-7582
Photo of Amy Lemmon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Amy Lemmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Amy Lemmon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 12 years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness and medical conditions, midlife transitions, and women's issues. As a therapist, Amy has counseled a diverse group of adults in clinical, community and outpatient settings. She draws from a range of experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), person centered approach, strengths based perspective, and mindfulness. Amy's therapeutic style is holistic and rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
Amy Lemmon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 12 years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness and medical conditions, midlife transitions, and women's issues. As a therapist, Amy has counseled a diverse group of adults in clinical, community and outpatient settings. She draws from a range of experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), person centered approach, strengths based perspective, and mindfulness. Amy's therapeutic style is holistic and rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
(463) 217-0590 View (463) 217-0590
Photo of Sydney Isley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, IN
Sydney Isley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I specialize in anxiety, depression, boundary-making, EMDR, social skill building, conflict-resolution/ communication skills through the lens of evidenced-based practices and other integrative models.
Sometimes life can be very difficult to manage and cope and it can be a challenge to find someone who will really listen or know what to do to help. Reaching out to a therapist is a courageous choice and I highly value and care for each client that I counsel. Your story and struggles are important and it is my high privilege that you would trust me in sharing your personal story. Stylistically, I am a present, caring and thoughtful therapist that help clients gain empowerment, containment and goal-setting using effective evidenced-based tools. I am also EMDR Certified to work with clients who have experienced trauma.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, boundary-making, EMDR, social skill building, conflict-resolution/ communication skills through the lens of evidenced-based practices and other integrative models.
Sometimes life can be very difficult to manage and cope and it can be a challenge to find someone who will really listen or know what to do to help. Reaching out to a therapist is a courageous choice and I highly value and care for each client that I counsel. Your story and struggles are important and it is my high privilege that you would trust me in sharing your personal story. Stylistically, I am a present, caring and thoughtful therapist that help clients gain empowerment, containment and goal-setting using effective evidenced-based tools. I am also EMDR Certified to work with clients who have experienced trauma.
(317) 480-4447 View (317) 480-4447
Photo of Dr. Emma Carter, Psychologist in Carmel, IN
Dr. Emma Carter
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP, CYC-P
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
With adults, I specialize in depression, anxiety, and the lifelong impacts rooted in difficult childhood experiences.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, it is truly my privilege to witness the kind of strength needed to find therapy. I have special appreciation for the (often painful) moment when your present becomes harder than the fear that comes with change. I hope you’ll find acceptance and respect for exactly who you are, while I also commit to do all I can to support the desired transformation in the areas that brought us together. I try to approach all that I do with compassion, curiosity, and with a deep appreciation for our shared humanity.
With adults, I specialize in depression, anxiety, and the lifelong impacts rooted in difficult childhood experiences.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, it is truly my privilege to witness the kind of strength needed to find therapy. I have special appreciation for the (often painful) moment when your present becomes harder than the fear that comes with change. I hope you’ll find acceptance and respect for exactly who you are, while I also commit to do all I can to support the desired transformation in the areas that brought us together. I try to approach all that I do with compassion, curiosity, and with a deep appreciation for our shared humanity.
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Photo of Ransburg Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Ransburg Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced therapist for successful treatment outcome? Is your depression, anxiety, or traumatic memory preventing you from living your life to your optimal potential? We are committed to help. Ransburg Counseling is owned by Hsiu-Ying and Craig Ransburg, licensed clinical social workers and addiction counselors. Over 21 years, we have successfully helped many clients and their families overcome their life challenges, anxiety, depression, work, school, relationship, trauma issues, etc. We are passionate about delivering effective treatment and advocating for our clients' needs. We believe holistic mind body healing and strive to be excellent in all that we do.
Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced therapist for successful treatment outcome? Is your depression, anxiety, or traumatic memory preventing you from living your life to your optimal potential? We are committed to help. Ransburg Counseling is owned by Hsiu-Ying and Craig Ransburg, licensed clinical social workers and addiction counselors. Over 21 years, we have successfully helped many clients and their families overcome their life challenges, anxiety, depression, work, school, relationship, trauma issues, etc. We are passionate about delivering effective treatment and advocating for our clients' needs. We believe holistic mind body healing and strive to be excellent in all that we do.
(317) 483-0502 View (317) 483-0502
Photo of Carmen Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Carmen Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, or the stresses of life transitions? You don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm here to support you on your journey towards mental well-being.
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, or the stresses of life transitions? You don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm here to support you on your journey towards mental well-being.
(317) 526-4734 View (317) 526-4734
Photo of Kristy E McNamee, Counselor in Carmel, IN
Kristy E McNamee
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Waitlist for new clients
I am also EMDR-trained and ART-certified and have found these to be very effective therapies when dealing with trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Note: Others in my collaborative practice are taking new clients. It is my belief that everyone can benefit from counseling, and it takes a strong person to seek out assistance when needed. I believe we are not made to live in isolation, and we do best when we are part of a community. By recognizing the events that have formed us in life, we can learn from them and become a better version of ourselves. In order for this process to take place, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment that supports increased insight and growth.
I am also EMDR-trained and ART-certified and have found these to be very effective therapies when dealing with trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Note: Others in my collaborative practice are taking new clients. It is my belief that everyone can benefit from counseling, and it takes a strong person to seek out assistance when needed. I believe we are not made to live in isolation, and we do best when we are part of a community. By recognizing the events that have formed us in life, we can learn from them and become a better version of ourselves. In order for this process to take place, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment that supports increased insight and growth.
(317) 620-8643 View (317) 620-8643
Photo of Thomas J Valek, Counselor in Carmel, IN
Thomas J Valek
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
This approach can help with a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, anger/stress management, relationship issues, trauma and more.
I work with individuals and couples, teens and children with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.I know that clients want to see progress even though it may be incremental. Therefore, I provide for a collaborative structure, plan and goals that allow clients to see progress every week. I provide resources, homework, and education to my clients to help them in the process of self-discovery and addressing relationship issues. I help clients to find solutions to solvable problems and develop coping skills to address issues that are harder to solve.
This approach can help with a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, anger/stress management, relationship issues, trauma and more.
I work with individuals and couples, teens and children with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues.I know that clients want to see progress even though it may be incremental. Therefore, I provide for a collaborative structure, plan and goals that allow clients to see progress every week. I provide resources, homework, and education to my clients to help them in the process of self-discovery and addressing relationship issues. I help clients to find solutions to solvable problems and develop coping skills to address issues that are harder to solve.
(317) 836-0569 View (317) 836-0569
Photo of Shana Markle, Psychologist in Carmel, IN
Shana Markle
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Dr. Markle specializes in working with adults and young adults/college students with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, body image concerns, and significant life events. She is adept at working with trauma, past and present, and the impact trauma has on present day functioning. Dr. Markle has over 20 years of experience ranging from serious mental illness to personal growth.
Dr. Markle specializes in working with adults and young adults/college students with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, body image concerns, and significant life events. She is adept at working with trauma, past and present, and the impact trauma has on present day functioning. Dr. Markle has over 20 years of experience ranging from serious mental illness to personal growth.
(317) 210-1046 View (317) 210-1046
Photo of Pamela Wampler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, IN
Pamela Wampler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I have been working with individuals and couples for 20 years. Many of the clients I see suffer from depression, anxiety, work and relationship issues (including communication problems, feeling disconnected, infidelity, and divorce). I help clients find new ways of coping, seeing and thinking, and relating. Although I am knowledgeable and skilled in several therapeutic methods, I don't believe in "one-size-fits-all" therapy. Instead, I adapt my treatment plan to meet the needs, goals, and personality of each client.
I have been working with individuals and couples for 20 years. Many of the clients I see suffer from depression, anxiety, work and relationship issues (including communication problems, feeling disconnected, infidelity, and divorce). I help clients find new ways of coping, seeing and thinking, and relating. Although I am knowledgeable and skilled in several therapeutic methods, I don't believe in "one-size-fits-all" therapy. Instead, I adapt my treatment plan to meet the needs, goals, and personality of each client.
(317) 758-3504 View (317) 758-3504
Photo of April Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional in Carmel, IN
April Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
April has experience with teens, adults, and minorities, facing issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma and trauma relative to racial discrimination.
Are you looking for a better quality of life? Trying to figure out how to move past the pain, hurt, hopelessness, overwhelmed, feeling restless, nervous, or racial trauma. Are you wanting to transform your life, build confidence, reach your goals, increase decision making skills, start a business/change careers, or an accountability partner to move you from from fear to success. April will assist you with working through depression, feeling anxious, struggling with past hurts, or wanting a change in your life/career. April am here to walk through this journey with you. Improve your mental wellbeing and attain your life goals.
April has experience with teens, adults, and minorities, facing issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma and trauma relative to racial discrimination.
Are you looking for a better quality of life? Trying to figure out how to move past the pain, hurt, hopelessness, overwhelmed, feeling restless, nervous, or racial trauma. Are you wanting to transform your life, build confidence, reach your goals, increase decision making skills, start a business/change careers, or an accountability partner to move you from from fear to success. April will assist you with working through depression, feeling anxious, struggling with past hurts, or wanting a change in your life/career. April am here to walk through this journey with you. Improve your mental wellbeing and attain your life goals.
(317) 680-5730 View (317) 680-5730
Photo of Haneefah Musheerah Booker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Haneefah Musheerah Booker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
My specialties include but are not limited to working with women who may be feeling hopeless and depressed, Parents, adolescents and children who seem defiant and/or confused, couples in conflict and those struggling with anxiety, and trauma.
Today's life stresses and challenges sometime take us to a painful place emotionally and psychologically. It can be scary and overwhelming. You may feel you just need someone that will listen, understand, and be objective. I will listen and together we will explore your specific concerns in an empathetic and accepting environment. I am non-judgmental and I will look for your strengths while we work to empower you to heal and transform your life.
My specialties include but are not limited to working with women who may be feeling hopeless and depressed, Parents, adolescents and children who seem defiant and/or confused, couples in conflict and those struggling with anxiety, and trauma.
Today's life stresses and challenges sometime take us to a painful place emotionally and psychologically. It can be scary and overwhelming. You may feel you just need someone that will listen, understand, and be objective. I will listen and together we will explore your specific concerns in an empathetic and accepting environment. I am non-judgmental and I will look for your strengths while we work to empower you to heal and transform your life.
(463) 500-1352 View (463) 500-1352
Amy Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I work with those who may have problems with depression/anxiety, family and role changes, trauma, loss, learning disabilities/ADHD in children and adults.
Emotional distress is overwhelming and can interfere with your life. Professional support and treatment can help resolve many difficulties, relationships can become more fulfilling, and self image can be enhanced. I have a dynamic, warm and interactive style, and believe everyone has the ability to use their inner strength and awareness, as well as develop more effective ways of coping. I have been in private practice for fifteen years.
I work with those who may have problems with depression/anxiety, family and role changes, trauma, loss, learning disabilities/ADHD in children and adults.
Emotional distress is overwhelming and can interfere with your life. Professional support and treatment can help resolve many difficulties, relationships can become more fulfilling, and self image can be enhanced. I have a dynamic, warm and interactive style, and believe everyone has the ability to use their inner strength and awareness, as well as develop more effective ways of coping. I have been in private practice for fifteen years.
(317) 722-0566 View (317) 722-0566
Photo of Tony Langstaff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, IN
Tony Langstaff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46033
I help people struggling with stress, depression, or anxiety as well as relational conflicts within families and couples. I understand the challenges in getting help to get "unstuck" and realize it takes courage to ask for help. However, if you are like many others, you are likely tired of dealing with the same problems and getting the same results. I also help others who avoid dealing with the problem and are finally ready to begin a new life. Finding the right person to guide you should not be taken lightly.
I help people struggling with stress, depression, or anxiety as well as relational conflicts within families and couples. I understand the challenges in getting help to get "unstuck" and realize it takes courage to ask for help. However, if you are like many others, you are likely tired of dealing with the same problems and getting the same results. I also help others who avoid dealing with the problem and are finally ready to begin a new life. Finding the right person to guide you should not be taken lightly.
(317) 548-8535 View (317) 548-8535
Photo of Colin M Rak-Dietz, Psychologist in Carmel, IN
Colin M Rak-Dietz
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I have helped people with a variety of life issues, including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma recovery, substance use, grief/loss, self-harming behaviors, gender/sexuality concerns, and personality disorders.
I offer a warm, supportive, nonjudgmental, and collaborative environment in helping you to effectively resolve issues that are troubling you. We will work together to recognize and develop your strengths, to understand and change unhelpful patterns, and to help you gain relief from suffering. I emphasize respect, authenticity, and compassion for self and others. I believe you are the author of your story, and that together we can help you grow and flourish so that you are able to thrive and achieve your goals.
I have helped people with a variety of life issues, including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma recovery, substance use, grief/loss, self-harming behaviors, gender/sexuality concerns, and personality disorders.
I offer a warm, supportive, nonjudgmental, and collaborative environment in helping you to effectively resolve issues that are troubling you. We will work together to recognize and develop your strengths, to understand and change unhelpful patterns, and to help you gain relief from suffering. I emphasize respect, authenticity, and compassion for self and others. I believe you are the author of your story, and that together we can help you grow and flourish so that you are able to thrive and achieve your goals.
(317) 942-3566 View (317) 942-3566
Photo of Zachary Litherland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Zachary Litherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
If you have run into an obstacle in your life, especially one related to frustrating emotions like depression and anxiety, and you don’t know where to start, I am the therapist for you. My goal is to make therapy as simple as possible so we can work together to create the change in your life you want, whether that is to recover from a bout of mental illness or to have a space solely devoted to being heard.
If you have run into an obstacle in your life, especially one related to frustrating emotions like depression and anxiety, and you don’t know where to start, I am the therapist for you. My goal is to make therapy as simple as possible so we can work together to create the change in your life you want, whether that is to recover from a bout of mental illness or to have a space solely devoted to being heard.
(463) 208-4406 View (463) 208-4406
Photo of M. Stephanie Hart, Counselor in Carmel, IN
M. Stephanie Hart
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My scope of practice focuses on treating depression, anxiety/stress, adjustment issues, and substance use disorders.
Welcome. I'm glad you're here. Do you struggle with overthinking, excessive stress, or lack of motivation? Are you having difficulty communicating your feelings or setting healthy boundaries? I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where you can comfortably take steps toward your personal goals. Together we'll untangle and identify feelings, discuss healthy coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward healing. Let's develop a plan best suited for you.
My scope of practice focuses on treating depression, anxiety/stress, adjustment issues, and substance use disorders.
Welcome. I'm glad you're here. Do you struggle with overthinking, excessive stress, or lack of motivation? Are you having difficulty communicating your feelings or setting healthy boundaries? I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where you can comfortably take steps toward your personal goals. Together we'll untangle and identify feelings, discuss healthy coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward healing. Let's develop a plan best suited for you.
(317) 644-4351 View (317) 644-4351
Photo of Luis Figueroa, Pre-Licensed Professional in Carmel, IN
Luis Figueroa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I have experience working with complex trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I approach therapy with empathy, non-judgment, and support, helping my clients develop coping skills and make positive changes in their lives. I am a mental health therapist with over four years of experience providing school-based and outpatient services for clients from adolescents to adults. In addition, I am a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served from September 2002 to November 2006. With extensive knowledge in diagnosing mental health disorders, I create personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs and circumstances.
I have experience working with complex trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
I approach therapy with empathy, non-judgment, and support, helping my clients develop coping skills and make positive changes in their lives. I am a mental health therapist with over four years of experience providing school-based and outpatient services for clients from adolescents to adults. In addition, I am a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served from September 2002 to November 2006. With extensive knowledge in diagnosing mental health disorders, I create personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs and circumstances.
(317) 204-8073 View (317) 204-8073
Photo of Melanie Riggs, Counselor in Carmel, IN
Melanie Riggs
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I have experience in working with symptoms of anxiety, depression, sexually maladaptive behaviors, communication issues, self esteem issues, sexual orientation, issues with identity, anger management, substance use issues, occupational concerns and marital/relationship issues.
Change your thoughts and you change your world. This statement could not be a more perfect example of how I view this thing called life. I believe that my role is to help guide you in becoming more aware of any barriers that may be in the way of allowing for change and growth. I come from a holistic frame of mind and believe that one can regain balance of mind, body, and soul with just being open to the idea and process of change. In addition to traditional therapy, I also offer Equine Facilitated Learning sessions and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy sessions through Strides to Success as a way to support a more holistic healing.
I have experience in working with symptoms of anxiety, depression, sexually maladaptive behaviors, communication issues, self esteem issues, sexual orientation, issues with identity, anger management, substance use issues, occupational concerns and marital/relationship issues.
Change your thoughts and you change your world. This statement could not be a more perfect example of how I view this thing called life. I believe that my role is to help guide you in becoming more aware of any barriers that may be in the way of allowing for change and growth. I come from a holistic frame of mind and believe that one can regain balance of mind, body, and soul with just being open to the idea and process of change. In addition to traditional therapy, I also offer Equine Facilitated Learning sessions and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy sessions through Strides to Success as a way to support a more holistic healing.
(317) 961-8379 View (317) 961-8379
Photo of Susan M Pittman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Susan M Pittman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Because many people seek mental health treatment initially for anxiety and depression, we will focus on your daily functioning to develop skills that will help foster confidence, problem-solving, and peace of mind.
Susan M. Pittman, MSW, LCSW, therapist at Northside Psychotherapeutics. Empowering people to make meaningful change in their lives has always been my passion. I offer a wide range of clinical skills developed over the past 30 years in the social services field working with teens, adults, and seniors. I have 13 years practicing as a licensed therapist. While I enjoy using a variety of therapy models and approaches, I find that first and foremost people simply need someone to listen, and help them alleviate their emotional distress. Thank you for your willingness to face your personal life challenges, and asking for help.
Because many people seek mental health treatment initially for anxiety and depression, we will focus on your daily functioning to develop skills that will help foster confidence, problem-solving, and peace of mind.
Susan M. Pittman, MSW, LCSW, therapist at Northside Psychotherapeutics. Empowering people to make meaningful change in their lives has always been my passion. I offer a wide range of clinical skills developed over the past 30 years in the social services field working with teens, adults, and seniors. I have 13 years practicing as a licensed therapist. While I enjoy using a variety of therapy models and approaches, I find that first and foremost people simply need someone to listen, and help them alleviate their emotional distress. Thank you for your willingness to face your personal life challenges, and asking for help.
(463) 444-7576 View (463) 444-7576
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.