Photo of Bradley Wantz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Bradley Wantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCAC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46201  (Online Only)
I believe people are full of inherent strengths, waiting to be unlocked. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself and accomplish your goals. By identifying your strengths, we can work together to overcome issues in your life. I don't fix people, and I don't tell them what to do. I believe in a therapeutic relationship that is built on empathy and equity. Whether you are working through a substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, relationships conflicts, grief, or low self-esteem, I'd love to be part of your healing journey.
I believe people are full of inherent strengths, waiting to be unlocked. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself and accomplish your goals. By identifying your strengths, we can work together to overcome issues in your life. I don't fix people, and I don't tell them what to do. I believe in a therapeutic relationship that is built on empathy and equity. Whether you are working through a substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, relationships conflicts, grief, or low self-esteem, I'd love to be part of your healing journey.
(317) 754-7703 View (317) 754-7703
Photo of Cagney Ryan Gladin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Cagney Ryan Gladin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46203  (Online Only)
I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance and/or alcohol use.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced life changes, trauma, stressors, and/or struggled with substance use. I aim to partner with clients to understand what changes they are looking for, and walk along side them as they achieve their goals. I strongly believe that change is possible and that every human can grow to be the self they strive for. I look to provide support for those engaged in sex work, in the kink community, LGBTQI+ community, those who use substances, or have faced any discrimination or oppression. I am happy to support trans-individuals in gender affirming care and support.
I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance and/or alcohol use.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced life changes, trauma, stressors, and/or struggled with substance use. I aim to partner with clients to understand what changes they are looking for, and walk along side them as they achieve their goals. I strongly believe that change is possible and that every human can grow to be the self they strive for. I look to provide support for those engaged in sex work, in the kink community, LGBTQI+ community, those who use substances, or have faced any discrimination or oppression. I am happy to support trans-individuals in gender affirming care and support.
(317) 494-7021 View (317) 494-7021
Photo of Brae Marvin Salmond, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Brae Marvin Salmond
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
When my father passed away when I was ten years old, I saw my first therapist. I had no idea what was happening. I was unable to articulate my feelings at the time, so it was all very hazy. I realized as I began to come into my own that people gravitated toward me because I was easygoing and relaxed. As I learned more about the various demographics and pursued my studies, I became increasingly aware of my desire to work with those who lived with trauma, anxiety, depression, and the LGBTQ+ community.
When my father passed away when I was ten years old, I saw my first therapist. I had no idea what was happening. I was unable to articulate my feelings at the time, so it was all very hazy. I realized as I began to come into my own that people gravitated toward me because I was easygoing and relaxed. As I learned more about the various demographics and pursued my studies, I became increasingly aware of my desire to work with those who lived with trauma, anxiety, depression, and the LGBTQ+ community.
(317) 483-8041 View (317) 483-8041
Photo of Zach Burck, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Zach Burck
Counselor, LMHCA, MSEd
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I work with people who are experiencing emotional distress and looking for lasting change in their lives. Depression, anxiety, feelings of sadness and hopelessness, distressing thoughts, and self criticism can all make life unbearable and dampen one's spirit. My style of therapy focuses on building an understanding of one's distress, its relationship to the past, and how its shaped you into the person you are now. Together we'll think about the problems you face and carve a path toward a more fulfillinh life. We are changed by every relationship in our lives. And my hope is our relationship will bring about the healing you seek.
I work with people who are experiencing emotional distress and looking for lasting change in their lives. Depression, anxiety, feelings of sadness and hopelessness, distressing thoughts, and self criticism can all make life unbearable and dampen one's spirit. My style of therapy focuses on building an understanding of one's distress, its relationship to the past, and how its shaped you into the person you are now. Together we'll think about the problems you face and carve a path toward a more fulfillinh life. We are changed by every relationship in our lives. And my hope is our relationship will bring about the healing you seek.
(317) 707-4412 View (317) 707-4412
Photo of Essential Counseling Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Essential Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46222
Essential Counseling Group strives to help you become your best self. We service individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing increased stress, caregiver stress, anxiety, depression, grief etc. We believe that there is power in simply being heard. To request and appointment copy and paste link: essentialcounselinggroup.clientsecure.me
Essential Counseling Group strives to help you become your best self. We service individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing increased stress, caregiver stress, anxiety, depression, grief etc. We believe that there is power in simply being heard. To request and appointment copy and paste link: essentialcounselinggroup.clientsecure.me
(828) 570-5194 View (828) 570-5194
Photo of Laura Hosek, Pre-Licensed Professional in Indianapolis, IN
Laura Hosek
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Many of my clients' goals involve managing anxiety, depression, identity development, and living authentically so that they can lead happier and healthier lives, whatever that may look like for them.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and transparent. I use the skills and experiences I've gained to help clients achieve their own goals. Instead of curing mental health I believe in helping people understand and manage their issues in sustainable ways. Since I use a lot of metaphors in therapy, the one I use to illustrate and describe my therapeutic process is likening it to a home improvement. My job is to help clients explore and find the right tools for their unique improvements and provide guidance so clients have support while making lasting changes they want in their life. The toolbox can then be used outside of therapy.
Many of my clients' goals involve managing anxiety, depression, identity development, and living authentically so that they can lead happier and healthier lives, whatever that may look like for them.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and transparent. I use the skills and experiences I've gained to help clients achieve their own goals. Instead of curing mental health I believe in helping people understand and manage their issues in sustainable ways. Since I use a lot of metaphors in therapy, the one I use to illustrate and describe my therapeutic process is likening it to a home improvement. My job is to help clients explore and find the right tools for their unique improvements and provide guidance so clients have support while making lasting changes they want in their life. The toolbox can then be used outside of therapy.
(463) 255-4677 View (463) 255-4677
Photo of Mercedes Carey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Mercedes Carey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
I enjoy working with individuals who experience difficulty with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
My name is Mercedes Carey, and I'm a licensed social worker. I'm interested in assisting people in discovering new ways to live a lifestyle that promotes healing on a mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual level. I use somatic approaches, such as mindfulness and movement, to treat the mind and body together. As a queer masculine-presenting woman of color, I know what it’s like to belong to multiple marginalized identities and navigate spaces where your entire self is not acknowledged or welcomed. I am deeply committed to providing a safe therapeutic environment that recognizes and honors individuals as a whole person.
I enjoy working with individuals who experience difficulty with stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
My name is Mercedes Carey, and I'm a licensed social worker. I'm interested in assisting people in discovering new ways to live a lifestyle that promotes healing on a mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual level. I use somatic approaches, such as mindfulness and movement, to treat the mind and body together. As a queer masculine-presenting woman of color, I know what it’s like to belong to multiple marginalized identities and navigate spaces where your entire self is not acknowledged or welcomed. I am deeply committed to providing a safe therapeutic environment that recognizes and honors individuals as a whole person.
(463) 217-4691 View (463) 217-4691
Photo of Dr. Tay Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Dr. Tay Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46268  (Online Only)
Whether it's addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, I draw upon a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to your specific needs and goals.
I am dedicated to providing psychotherapy services to Black and Brown men and Veterans. As a Black veteran myself, I deeply understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by these populations and I am committed to offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. I understand the complexities of identity, racism, and societal pressures that contribute to mental health challenges within these communities. I have developed a deep understanding of the specific struggles faced by Veterans, such as PTSD, transition difficulties, and reintegration challenges.
Whether it's addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, I draw upon a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to your specific needs and goals.
I am dedicated to providing psychotherapy services to Black and Brown men and Veterans. As a Black veteran myself, I deeply understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by these populations and I am committed to offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. I understand the complexities of identity, racism, and societal pressures that contribute to mental health challenges within these communities. I have developed a deep understanding of the specific struggles faced by Veterans, such as PTSD, transition difficulties, and reintegration challenges.
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Photo of Stephanie Ellen Rudd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Stephanie Ellen Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202  (Online Only)
My role will never be to tell you what to do; rather we will work together to find the perfect solution for you. I accept clients from all backgrounds, identities, and cultures. I have a warm welcome for those of the LGBTQ+ community along with open relationship structures/polyamory. Areas of most experience include anxiety, depression, OCD, addiction (harm reduction model, preferably). No area or challenge is too small or seemingly too insignificant in which to engage in therapy. Clients will be successful when they come with an open mind, a willingness to be vulnerable, while also being provided their own pace and comfort.
My role will never be to tell you what to do; rather we will work together to find the perfect solution for you. I accept clients from all backgrounds, identities, and cultures. I have a warm welcome for those of the LGBTQ+ community along with open relationship structures/polyamory. Areas of most experience include anxiety, depression, OCD, addiction (harm reduction model, preferably). No area or challenge is too small or seemingly too insignificant in which to engage in therapy. Clients will be successful when they come with an open mind, a willingness to be vulnerable, while also being provided their own pace and comfort.
(317) 342-5693 View (317) 342-5693
Photo of Joanna Will, Psychologist in Indianapolis, IN
Joanna Will
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Waitlist for new clients
I have 10+ years of experience treating depression, trauma, anxiety, BPD, and psychosis.
My goal as your therapist is to help you deeply know yourself and build meaningful connections with others. Many people come to therapy because they feel afraid to show the world their true selves, feel intense pressure to succeed, or have internalized messages that they are unloveable or unworthy. Many struggle with an inner critic and "irrational" fears. You might also use defensiveness, fear of intimacy, and shutting down to protect yourself from others when you feel unsafe. Instead of fighting internal battles and living in cycles of avoidance, I help you approach yourself and your patterns with curiosity and compassion.
I have 10+ years of experience treating depression, trauma, anxiety, BPD, and psychosis.
My goal as your therapist is to help you deeply know yourself and build meaningful connections with others. Many people come to therapy because they feel afraid to show the world their true selves, feel intense pressure to succeed, or have internalized messages that they are unloveable or unworthy. Many struggle with an inner critic and "irrational" fears. You might also use defensiveness, fear of intimacy, and shutting down to protect yourself from others when you feel unsafe. Instead of fighting internal battles and living in cycles of avoidance, I help you approach yourself and your patterns with curiosity and compassion.
(317) 593-2694 View (317) 593-2694
Photo of KAP Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
KAP Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and families with varied issues including: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, self esteem, life transitions, chronic stress and family conflict.
"Because you are alive, everything is possible"- Thich Nhat Han. I believe that we all have the ability to change and the potential to be our best selves. As a therapist, I actively encourage, support and challenge you to define what you want in life. I feel that my role in counseling is to help empower you to create balance in your life and feel at peace and content. Using a variety of therapeutic techniques, I can help you challenge your thinking, let go of anxiety and fears, and find comfort and support.
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and families with varied issues including: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, self esteem, life transitions, chronic stress and family conflict.
"Because you are alive, everything is possible"- Thich Nhat Han. I believe that we all have the ability to change and the potential to be our best selves. As a therapist, I actively encourage, support and challenge you to define what you want in life. I feel that my role in counseling is to help empower you to create balance in your life and feel at peace and content. Using a variety of therapeutic techniques, I can help you challenge your thinking, let go of anxiety and fears, and find comfort and support.
(317) 662-2032 View (317) 662-2032
Photo of David Chaddock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
David Chaddock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
CenterPoint Counseling focuses on mood related issues (anxiety - depression), relational issues (couples, marital, divorce and parenting), child and adolescent (play therapy/group) and trauma work (E.
In 1987, I helped develop CenterPoint Counseling. I currently serve as their Executive Director and we have a staff of ten therapists. I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist and licensed as both a Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Social Worker. I also have a Doctorate in Pastoral Care and Counseling and am ordained as a Presbyterian Minister (P.C.U.S.A.) I am on the National Registry of Marriage Friendly Therapist. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety and depression issues. I see couples, partners and spouses and am certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist.
CenterPoint Counseling focuses on mood related issues (anxiety - depression), relational issues (couples, marital, divorce and parenting), child and adolescent (play therapy/group) and trauma work (E.
In 1987, I helped develop CenterPoint Counseling. I currently serve as their Executive Director and we have a staff of ten therapists. I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist and licensed as both a Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Social Worker. I also have a Doctorate in Pastoral Care and Counseling and am ordained as a Presbyterian Minister (P.C.U.S.A.) I am on the National Registry of Marriage Friendly Therapist. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety and depression issues. I see couples, partners and spouses and am certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist.
(317) 662-2195 View (317) 662-2195
Photo of Robert L Smith, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Robert L Smith
Counselor, PhD, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Finding a therapist that you can connect with can be a difficult experience. For over 25 years, I have dedicated myself to trying to make the process of therapy an experience that is helpful, respectful and solution focused. I work with individuals who might be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, PTSD, grief or childhood issues that may remain an influence in your adult life.
Finding a therapist that you can connect with can be a difficult experience. For over 25 years, I have dedicated myself to trying to make the process of therapy an experience that is helpful, respectful and solution focused. I work with individuals who might be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, PTSD, grief or childhood issues that may remain an influence in your adult life.
(317) 758-3664 View (317) 758-3664
Photo of Natalie Stevens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Natalie Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46205  (Online Only)
Are things feeling heavy? Does your heart ache? Are you struggling to manage? Are you anxious? The stress of life can definitely be challenging at times and can really get us feeling down and overwhelmed. I offer you my support and compassion through this time. Let's work together to get you feeling better. I have been working in the field of Mental Health for over 22 years, with 17 years of experience as a Psychotherapist. I am passionate about my work, and being a therapist is my true calling. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or grief, there is help and hope. Reaching out is the first step!
Are things feeling heavy? Does your heart ache? Are you struggling to manage? Are you anxious? The stress of life can definitely be challenging at times and can really get us feeling down and overwhelmed. I offer you my support and compassion through this time. Let's work together to get you feeling better. I have been working in the field of Mental Health for over 22 years, with 17 years of experience as a Psychotherapist. I am passionate about my work, and being a therapist is my true calling. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or grief, there is help and hope. Reaching out is the first step!
(317) 218-9802 View (317) 218-9802
Photo of Ashley Gallaway, Counselor in Indianapolis, IN
Ashley Gallaway
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46290
I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating trauma, anxiety, depression, phase of life, and, self-awareness. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space for clients to be heard, encouraged, and to process life’s struggles and successes.
I offer individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults and have extensive experience treating trauma, anxiety, depression, phase of life, and, self-awareness. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space for clients to be heard, encouraged, and to process life’s struggles and successes.
(317) 203-8934 View (317) 203-8934
Photo of Tami Krichiver, Psychologist in Indianapolis, IN
Tami Krichiver
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stage-of-life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Winnicott wrote, "Feeling real is more than existing; it is finding a way to exist as oneself." It is my hope that through the process of therapy, you'll come to know and develop yourself in ways that are life affirming. I am a clinical psychologist, providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and groups. My approach is collaborative, and together we'll uncover new perspectives for understanding and managing difficulties that hold you back. We'll look for patterns from your past that inform your current circumstances, and nurture the character strengths that help you live more fully.
I provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stage-of-life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Winnicott wrote, "Feeling real is more than existing; it is finding a way to exist as oneself." It is my hope that through the process of therapy, you'll come to know and develop yourself in ways that are life affirming. I am a clinical psychologist, providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and groups. My approach is collaborative, and together we'll uncover new perspectives for understanding and managing difficulties that hold you back. We'll look for patterns from your past that inform your current circumstances, and nurture the character strengths that help you live more fully.
(317) 567-9561 View (317) 567-9561
Photo of Susie Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Susie Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46216
I have 20 plus years' experience providing mental health therapy for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, stages of life events, family relations and marriage counseling.
It is my belief that mental health is an important part of our overall health. I strive to create a judgement free environment where you can feel free and at ease talking about any issues, concerns or goals you have. I will meet you where you are, believing each of you are the expert of your own life.
I have 20 plus years' experience providing mental health therapy for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, stages of life events, family relations and marriage counseling.
It is my belief that mental health is an important part of our overall health. I strive to create a judgement free environment where you can feel free and at ease talking about any issues, concerns or goals you have. I will meet you where you are, believing each of you are the expert of your own life.
(317) 779-3124 View (317) 779-3124
Photo of Megan Brogan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Megan Brogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have thorough knowledge of anxiety, depression, and identifying/treating suicidal ideation, serving as clinical educator for a large crisis dept.
It's uncomfortable to reach out for help, to reveal our pain and personal matters to anyone, let alone a stranger. This is why my priority is creating a safe, judgment free space to build a genuine connection with my clients. In addition to developing strategies to relieve immediate distress, I apply my 15 years in mental health, from home-based to hospital crisis work, to help you identify the reasons behind your struggles and resolve the underlying causes. This provides the framework for positive growth and a deeper understanding of oneself, for lasting results.
I have thorough knowledge of anxiety, depression, and identifying/treating suicidal ideation, serving as clinical educator for a large crisis dept.
It's uncomfortable to reach out for help, to reveal our pain and personal matters to anyone, let alone a stranger. This is why my priority is creating a safe, judgment free space to build a genuine connection with my clients. In addition to developing strategies to relieve immediate distress, I apply my 15 years in mental health, from home-based to hospital crisis work, to help you identify the reasons behind your struggles and resolve the underlying causes. This provides the framework for positive growth and a deeper understanding of oneself, for lasting results.
(317) 597-1505 View (317) 597-1505
Photo of Debra E Taylor-McGee, Psychologist in Indianapolis, IN
Debra E Taylor-McGee
Psychologist, EdD, HSPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle to get out of bed and face another day? Maybe your relationships are suffering. Are you on the hamster wheel of worry? Trouble sleeping? Does everyone want something from you, and you don't know how to say "No?" Maybe you feel stressed, depressed or anxious. If you answered "yes" to any of the above, please call me. I help professionals who want to feel good - and excited - about each day. You don"t have to suffer anymore.
Do you struggle to get out of bed and face another day? Maybe your relationships are suffering. Are you on the hamster wheel of worry? Trouble sleeping? Does everyone want something from you, and you don't know how to say "No?" Maybe you feel stressed, depressed or anxious. If you answered "yes" to any of the above, please call me. I help professionals who want to feel good - and excited - about each day. You don"t have to suffer anymore.
(317) 758-3841 View (317) 758-3841
Photo of Erin Cullen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Indianapolis, IN
Erin Cullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204
I have extensive experience working with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, parenting challenges and relationship issues.
My focus is designed to help individuals, couples and families realize their strengths and potential. Working individually, as a couple, or a family, my clients can, with minimal assistance, effectively address and resolve issues that hinder their well-being. My understanding nature, paired with my strong desire to see people thrive, allows my clients to grow in a safe environment conducive to the achievement of optimum life potential. What sets my practice apart from others, is that I offer my services in an office setting, as well as in the privacy and comfort of your home.
I have extensive experience working with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, parenting challenges and relationship issues.
My focus is designed to help individuals, couples and families realize their strengths and potential. Working individually, as a couple, or a family, my clients can, with minimal assistance, effectively address and resolve issues that hinder their well-being. My understanding nature, paired with my strong desire to see people thrive, allows my clients to grow in a safe environment conducive to the achievement of optimum life potential. What sets my practice apart from others, is that I offer my services in an office setting, as well as in the privacy and comfort of your home.
(317) 854-4758 View (317) 854-4758

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.