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 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 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 mild substance use disorders.
Welcome. I'm glad you're here. Do you struggle with overthinking, excessive stress, or find yourself feeling more down than usual? 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. We will strive for a deepened understanding of yourself, discuss healthy ways of coping, 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. I am now accepting new clients.
My scope of practice focuses on treating depression, anxiety/stress, adjustment issues, and mild substance use disorders.
Welcome. I'm glad you're here. Do you struggle with overthinking, excessive stress, or find yourself feeling more down than usual? 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. We will strive for a deepened understanding of yourself, discuss healthy ways of coping, 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. I am now accepting new clients.
(317) 644-4351 View (317) 644-4351
Photo of Brian Sprayue, Counselor in Carmel, IN
Brian Sprayue
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
For the last five years Brian has been providing therapeutic treatment to teen girls and their families, in a long term residential setting, helping guide restoration in relationships, family structure and overall mental health functioning. Brian is a generalist but does specialize in working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, attachment issues, trauma related concerns, personality disorders, and other lifestyle issues such as LGBTQ+, gender, marriage and ENM lifestyles. Brian is accepting of and works closely with alternative lifestyle choices such as kink, poly and multi-partner dynamics.
For the last five years Brian has been providing therapeutic treatment to teen girls and their families, in a long term residential setting, helping guide restoration in relationships, family structure and overall mental health functioning. Brian is a generalist but does specialize in working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, attachment issues, trauma related concerns, personality disorders, and other lifestyle issues such as LGBTQ+, gender, marriage and ENM lifestyles. Brian is accepting of and works closely with alternative lifestyle choices such as kink, poly and multi-partner dynamics.
(463) 218-7831 View (463) 218-7831
Photo of Julia Sherrill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Julia Sherrill, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CYT, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you felt like you’re just surviving and unsure of how to create a different life for yourself? Are you ready for a change? Grow with the Flow Therapy focuses on life transitions, relationships, grief, and reducing anxiety and depression to create a more balanced life with meaning and purpose. We build awareness of thoughts, beliefs, and behavioral patterns that could be causing challenges. We try to live into our name by working on personal growth and change while we ‘go with the flow,’ trying to not fight against the currents of circumstances that we cannot change, but instead look for opportunities where change is possible.
Have you felt like you’re just surviving and unsure of how to create a different life for yourself? Are you ready for a change? Grow with the Flow Therapy focuses on life transitions, relationships, grief, and reducing anxiety and depression to create a more balanced life with meaning and purpose. We build awareness of thoughts, beliefs, and behavioral patterns that could be causing challenges. We try to live into our name by working on personal growth and change while we ‘go with the flow,’ trying to not fight against the currents of circumstances that we cannot change, but instead look for opportunities where change is possible.
(317) 401-8926 View (317) 401-8926
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 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 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 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
Photo of Laura Silence, Counselor in Carmel, IN
Laura Silence
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with mood disorders like Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Post Partum Depression and anxiety disorders like Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Helping others feel more empowered to manage their mental health is my passion. Using a person-centered approach, my practice emphasizes providing evidence based therapeutic interventions guiding teens and adults through the fog that has been weighing them down, in a compassionate and non-judgmental, safe space. With several years of clinical experience working in an Indianapolis based psychiatric emergency department completing risk assessments for people who struggle with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, self- harming behaviors, addiction, victims of interpersonal abuse, and a variety of other urgent mental health needs.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with mood disorders like Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Post Partum Depression and anxiety disorders like Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Helping others feel more empowered to manage their mental health is my passion. Using a person-centered approach, my practice emphasizes providing evidence based therapeutic interventions guiding teens and adults through the fog that has been weighing them down, in a compassionate and non-judgmental, safe space. With several years of clinical experience working in an Indianapolis based psychiatric emergency department completing risk assessments for people who struggle with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, self- harming behaviors, addiction, victims of interpersonal abuse, and a variety of other urgent mental health needs.
(463) 243-5892 View (463) 243-5892
Photo of Mary Beth Winter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, IN
Mary Beth Winter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Working with individuals, couple and family struggles, anxiety, depression, adolescent transitions into adulthood, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress, anger management, post-partum adjustment and abuse.
I believe therapy offers us a unique opportunity to deal with the challenges we inevitably face. throughout our lives. Within each of us lies the ability for personal growth and insight. We may find ourselves struggling with life transitions, job loss, relationships, personal issues and a great deal of uncertainty. I believe that during these times the therapy process is beneficial in finding, creating and empowering the self towards healthy, meaningful growth and change.
Working with individuals, couple and family struggles, anxiety, depression, adolescent transitions into adulthood, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress, anger management, post-partum adjustment and abuse.
I believe therapy offers us a unique opportunity to deal with the challenges we inevitably face. throughout our lives. Within each of us lies the ability for personal growth and insight. We may find ourselves struggling with life transitions, job loss, relationships, personal issues and a great deal of uncertainty. I believe that during these times the therapy process is beneficial in finding, creating and empowering the self towards healthy, meaningful growth and change.
(317) 569-5433 View (317) 569-5433
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 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 Michele C Thorne, Psychologist in Carmel, IN
Michele C Thorne
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Are you feeling stuck? Does it feel as though you can't reach your goals? All of us experience difficulties in our lives, within ourselves and within our relationships. As a therapist, my role is to help people use their strengths to help overcome life’s challenges. I work with children, teens, adults, and families who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioral challenges as well as with people coping with co-occurring medical conditions. I use several techniques including cognitive behavioral strategies, biofeedback, DBT, and interpersonal therapy to best meet your needs. I am a member of PSYPACT, serving 39 states.
Are you feeling stuck? Does it feel as though you can't reach your goals? All of us experience difficulties in our lives, within ourselves and within our relationships. As a therapist, my role is to help people use their strengths to help overcome life’s challenges. I work with children, teens, adults, and families who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioral challenges as well as with people coping with co-occurring medical conditions. I use several techniques including cognitive behavioral strategies, biofeedback, DBT, and interpersonal therapy to best meet your needs. I am a member of PSYPACT, serving 39 states.
(317) 708-4144 View (317) 708-4144
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
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 Gabrielle Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Gabrielle Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Gabi is a certified trauma-informed therapist and specializes in treating individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, family discord, self-esteem, impulse-control, and daily life stressors.
Gabi Goldstein is board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She obtained her Bachelors Degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas, and holds a Master's Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Gabi has five years experience working with teens, adults, and families, using a collaborative and person-centered approach. She enjoys being the calm in people's storm; providing a space where individuals can intentionally unpack the burdens of life's challenges and connect with their own experiences to cultivate a life of calm and purpose.
Gabi is a certified trauma-informed therapist and specializes in treating individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, family discord, self-esteem, impulse-control, and daily life stressors.
Gabi Goldstein is board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She obtained her Bachelors Degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas, and holds a Master's Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Gabi has five years experience working with teens, adults, and families, using a collaborative and person-centered approach. She enjoys being the calm in people's storm; providing a space where individuals can intentionally unpack the burdens of life's challenges and connect with their own experiences to cultivate a life of calm and purpose.
(463) 255-5430 View (463) 255-5430
Photo of Daniel Elsner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Daniel Elsner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46033
Are you looking for someone to help you with your anxiety, depression or mood disorder? I see individuals, adolescents and couples. I take an evidence based approach to therapy combining Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I want to help you determine what you’re doing that already works and support you as you work towards your own goals. Most people see an alleviation of symptoms within a few months of seeing me.
Are you looking for someone to help you with your anxiety, depression or mood disorder? I see individuals, adolescents and couples. I take an evidence based approach to therapy combining Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I want to help you determine what you’re doing that already works and support you as you work towards your own goals. Most people see an alleviation of symptoms within a few months of seeing me.
(317) 747-3406 View (317) 747-3406
Photo of Salma Mohiuddin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, IN
Salma Mohiuddin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46033
I have extensive experience addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions and spirituality.
Are you looking for a safe space to explore your past, present and future, but have been hesitant because of the fear of being judged or misunderstood? Are you someone who wants to share their story, struggles, and hopes, but wants therapy to provide observable change? Many of my clients say these are the reasons they were hesitant to seek therapy. I work hard to create a safe, judgement free place for you to share your story so we can explore the tools for you move forward.
I have extensive experience addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions and spirituality.
Are you looking for a safe space to explore your past, present and future, but have been hesitant because of the fear of being judged or misunderstood? Are you someone who wants to share their story, struggles, and hopes, but wants therapy to provide observable change? Many of my clients say these are the reasons they were hesitant to seek therapy. I work hard to create a safe, judgement free place for you to share your story so we can explore the tools for you move forward.
(317) 751-2782 View (317) 751-2782
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
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.