Photo of Terry Smith, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Terry Smith
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Together, we can work on addressing your anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, life transitions, or grief and loss.
I understand that everyone is unique and has different needs, which is why I am committed to meeting you where you are in your journey. Whether you are seeking individual therapy, family therapy, or couples therapy, I am here to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore and grow. I have a deep understanding of the challenges that individuals face, and I am dedicated to helping you navigate through them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or going through a difficult life transition, I am here to provide guidance and support.
Together, we can work on addressing your anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, life transitions, or grief and loss.
I understand that everyone is unique and has different needs, which is why I am committed to meeting you where you are in your journey. Whether you are seeking individual therapy, family therapy, or couples therapy, I am here to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore and grow. I have a deep understanding of the challenges that individuals face, and I am dedicated to helping you navigate through them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or going through a difficult life transition, I am here to provide guidance and support.
(515) 220-2842 View (515) 220-2842
Photo of Christopher A Marks, LMHC, Counselor
Christopher A Marks
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
I am a fully licensed mental health counselor who has been practicing for 12 years. I enjoy helping people reach their full potential and lead happy, healthy lives. I have experience supporting a wide range of individuals and couples while specializing in depression, anxiety, alcoholism/addiction, and trauma-related work. I work with clients, ages 14 and up, and I love my profession. I feel privileged to support so many who work so hard to improve their lives and their mental health. I would truly appreciate the opportunity to serve you and or your family.
I am a fully licensed mental health counselor who has been practicing for 12 years. I enjoy helping people reach their full potential and lead happy, healthy lives. I have experience supporting a wide range of individuals and couples while specializing in depression, anxiety, alcoholism/addiction, and trauma-related work. I work with clients, ages 14 and up, and I love my profession. I feel privileged to support so many who work so hard to improve their lives and their mental health. I would truly appreciate the opportunity to serve you and or your family.
(515) 605-7473 View (515) 605-7473
Photo of Kate Bell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Liberty, IA 52317  (Online Only)
Feelings of anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties can have a profound effect on your quality of life. Mental health care is an important component of building personal functioning and making lasting changes to individual outlook and situation. As a therapist I believe that you are the expert of your own life and experiences, and my role is to help you create meaning and understanding of those experiences. Together, we can help build realistic and effective coping skills to manage the unique challenges that you face to create lasting, positive change.
Feelings of anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties can have a profound effect on your quality of life. Mental health care is an important component of building personal functioning and making lasting changes to individual outlook and situation. As a therapist I believe that you are the expert of your own life and experiences, and my role is to help you create meaning and understanding of those experiences. Together, we can help build realistic and effective coping skills to manage the unique challenges that you face to create lasting, positive change.
(319) 246-8839 View (319) 246-8839
Photo of Sue Stidwell - Sue Stidwell, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Sue Stidwell, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I enjoy working with college age and above through older adult. Depression, anxiety, trauma and loss issues, ADHD are all areas of concern of clients that we can focus on together. Solution focused therapy, brief therapy, cognitive therapy, family systems therapy are all important as therapy approaches, with the best being truly listening to my clients to determine what they believe is possible through therapy. I have experiences with DMACC students, parenting classes, anger management classes for thirteen years, as well as mediating parenting plans for divorcing couples. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa.
I enjoy working with college age and above through older adult. Depression, anxiety, trauma and loss issues, ADHD are all areas of concern of clients that we can focus on together. Solution focused therapy, brief therapy, cognitive therapy, family systems therapy are all important as therapy approaches, with the best being truly listening to my clients to determine what they believe is possible through therapy. I have experiences with DMACC students, parenting classes, anger management classes for thirteen years, as well as mediating parenting plans for divorcing couples. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa.
(515) 599-3168 View (515) 599-3168
Photo of Casey Baker, EdD, LMHC, RPT-S, Counselor
Casey Baker
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spencer, IA 51301  (Online Only)
I have treated individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting concerns, family stress, stress management, body image, addictions, trauma, and emotional regulation.
I’m ready to walk alongside you on your path to hope and healing. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in Minnesota and a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa. I’m also a registered play therapist supervisor and a nationally certified counselor. I have experience working clinically, serving children, families, couples, and adults with a variety of mental health diagnoses at college campuses, in-home Children's Therapeutic Services and Supports, and outpatient mental health services. I’m also a member of the Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association and the Association of Counselor Education and Supervision.
I have treated individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting concerns, family stress, stress management, body image, addictions, trauma, and emotional regulation.
I’m ready to walk alongside you on your path to hope and healing. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in Minnesota and a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa. I’m also a registered play therapist supervisor and a nationally certified counselor. I have experience working clinically, serving children, families, couples, and adults with a variety of mental health diagnoses at college campuses, in-home Children's Therapeutic Services and Supports, and outpatient mental health services. I’m also a member of the Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association and the Association of Counselor Education and Supervision.
(833) 985-1876 View (833) 985-1876
Photo of Kendal A Paulsen, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kendal A Paulsen
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Iowa as well as a nationally certified counselor. I have experience working with adolescents, teens, adults, families and couples. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families to find a balance that is suitable to them. I will work through the process and stages with the client to meet their needs or struggles. My preferred methods of therapy include: Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral and Person-Centered Therapy. I have an interest in working with clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression and marital or family issues.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Iowa as well as a nationally certified counselor. I have experience working with adolescents, teens, adults, families and couples. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families to find a balance that is suitable to them. I will work through the process and stages with the client to meet their needs or struggles. My preferred methods of therapy include: Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral and Person-Centered Therapy. I have an interest in working with clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression and marital or family issues.
(712) 350-8833 View (712) 350-8833
Photo of Chelsey Hirt, MA, LMHC, LIMHP, Counselor
Chelsey Hirt
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Glenwood, IA 51534
Mental Health Therapy can enhance your ability to manage multiple stressors within individual and/or family emotions as well as with difficult relationships, communication, anxious thoughts, depressive thoughts and other stress like symptoms. I currently work with persons from 5-65 years old. Typical clients I see tend to struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and behavioral issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Gestalt Techniques and utilize mindfulness strategies. My goal is to utilize a therapy approach based on the client's needs/ goals to help ensure a positive therapeutic experience.
Mental Health Therapy can enhance your ability to manage multiple stressors within individual and/or family emotions as well as with difficult relationships, communication, anxious thoughts, depressive thoughts and other stress like symptoms. I currently work with persons from 5-65 years old. Typical clients I see tend to struggle with relationships, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and behavioral issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Gestalt Techniques and utilize mindfulness strategies. My goal is to utilize a therapy approach based on the client's needs/ goals to help ensure a positive therapeutic experience.
(712) 847-8255 View (712) 847-8255
Photo of Candice Cox, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Candice Cox
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peosta, IA 52068
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that has experience working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, low self-esteem, grief and loss, PTSD and other trauma related issues. I believe in a mindful person-centered approach where the therapeutic relationship is grounded in trust and unconditional acceptance. It is my mission to walk with you on your journey to making positive and lasting change in your life. All people deserve a healthy and balanced life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that has experience working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, low self-esteem, grief and loss, PTSD and other trauma related issues. I believe in a mindful person-centered approach where the therapeutic relationship is grounded in trust and unconditional acceptance. It is my mission to walk with you on your journey to making positive and lasting change in your life. All people deserve a healthy and balanced life.
(563) 284-7559 x1 View (563) 284-7559 x1
Photo of Kylie Russell, LISW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kylie Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
(319) 601-8078 View (319) 601-8078
Photo of Caitlin M Cool Kaufman, MS, LMHC, LIMHP, Counselor
Caitlin M Cool Kaufman
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
"Don't start tomorrow, with the broken pieces of Yesterday". If you have felt this way, or are feeling this way please consider seeking out someone to talk with. I have over ten years experience in a therapeutic setting working with individuals with depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, grief/loss, abuse, post partum depression, parenting relationship problems, school related problems, adjustment disorders and addictions. I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults, but I do welcome all ages. I utilize a number of different techniques as I believe that no single person is the same.
"Don't start tomorrow, with the broken pieces of Yesterday". If you have felt this way, or are feeling this way please consider seeking out someone to talk with. I have over ten years experience in a therapeutic setting working with individuals with depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, grief/loss, abuse, post partum depression, parenting relationship problems, school related problems, adjustment disorders and addictions. I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults, but I do welcome all ages. I utilize a number of different techniques as I believe that no single person is the same.
(402) 835-5706 View (402) 835-5706
Photo of Michael Anthony Cox, LMHC , LCPC, Counselor
Michael Anthony Cox
Counselor, LMHC , LCPC
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807
I have been helping others realize their mental health goals for over 23 years. I utilize a client-centered approach because I believe therapy should focus on each individual client's wants and needs, which vary from person to person. I often use humor in therapy, because I believe laughter is one of the greatest things you can share in this life. I have excellent experience with young children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I have helped people with anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, substance abuse, relationship and life changes, impulse control, and many other topics.
I have been helping others realize their mental health goals for over 23 years. I utilize a client-centered approach because I believe therapy should focus on each individual client's wants and needs, which vary from person to person. I often use humor in therapy, because I believe laughter is one of the greatest things you can share in this life. I have excellent experience with young children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I have helped people with anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, substance abuse, relationship and life changes, impulse control, and many other topics.
(563) 235-2891 View (563) 235-2891
Photo of Jon Hart, LMHC, Counselor
Jon Hart
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52002  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma, though my client base covers a variety of issues.
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do in life is to take the time to share and understand your own story. Taking that first step toward change can cause some anxiety and stress, but the second you walk through the door, you’ve already proven that you have the courage it takes to make that change a reality. My greatest joy as a therapist is having the privilege to help others find their inner strengths and overlooked talents, and I believe that you really do deserve to wake up each day excited for new possibilities.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma, though my client base covers a variety of issues.
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do in life is to take the time to share and understand your own story. Taking that first step toward change can cause some anxiety and stress, but the second you walk through the door, you’ve already proven that you have the courage it takes to make that change a reality. My greatest joy as a therapist is having the privilege to help others find their inner strengths and overlooked talents, and I believe that you really do deserve to wake up each day excited for new possibilities.
(563) 202-2268 View (563) 202-2268
Photo of Amber Jointer, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Jointer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
I specialize in the treatment and management of anxiety, depression and PTSD as well as personality and other mood disorders.
I believe that the therapeutic process begins with building a trusting relationship while providing a safe and non judgmental space to share life challenges and stressors. I provide services with a high degree of empathy in a manner that is very down to earth and authentic. I utilize an individualized, holistic, client centered approach that is tailored to meet your unique needs.
I specialize in the treatment and management of anxiety, depression and PTSD as well as personality and other mood disorders.
I believe that the therapeutic process begins with building a trusting relationship while providing a safe and non judgmental space to share life challenges and stressors. I provide services with a high degree of empathy in a manner that is very down to earth and authentic. I utilize an individualized, holistic, client centered approach that is tailored to meet your unique needs.
(515) 337-8785 View (515) 337-8785
Photo of Ali Simpson, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Ali Simpson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I have extensive history working with teens (ages 13+) and adults with symptoms and concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, family conflict, gender and sexuality (LGBTQIA+), Black-Indigenous-People of Color (BlPOC), racial trauma, and relationship concerns.
Starting counseling can be overwhelming and can leave you feeling vulnerable. My name is Ali Simpson and I strive to provide a comfortable, nonjudgmental, supportive environment to help you reach your goals. I use a collaborative approach which helps individuals feel comfortable openly sharing their thoughts and feelings. There are no concerns that can be viewed as too big or too small. Counseling is a place for all individuals seeking a more fulfilling life.
I have extensive history working with teens (ages 13+) and adults with symptoms and concerns of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, family conflict, gender and sexuality (LGBTQIA+), Black-Indigenous-People of Color (BlPOC), racial trauma, and relationship concerns.
Starting counseling can be overwhelming and can leave you feeling vulnerable. My name is Ali Simpson and I strive to provide a comfortable, nonjudgmental, supportive environment to help you reach your goals. I use a collaborative approach which helps individuals feel comfortable openly sharing their thoughts and feelings. There are no concerns that can be viewed as too big or too small. Counseling is a place for all individuals seeking a more fulfilling life.
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Photo of Amy S Roling - Amy Roling- Inspire Counseling & Coaching, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Amy Roling- Inspire Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waverly, IA 50677
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working in the counseling field for 20 years. I enjoy helping clients help themselves move forward and live a healthier life. I've worked in college counseling centers, community mental health, schools, and in Corporate America. I use a cognitive behavioral approach and focus on each client's strengths. I've worked with many clinical issues: including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and many other issues that interfere with one's ability to enjoy life. I truly believe that if an individual, couple or family want help, healing is possible.
I have been working in the counseling field for 20 years. I enjoy helping clients help themselves move forward and live a healthier life. I've worked in college counseling centers, community mental health, schools, and in Corporate America. I use a cognitive behavioral approach and focus on each client's strengths. I've worked with many clinical issues: including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and many other issues that interfere with one's ability to enjoy life. I truly believe that if an individual, couple or family want help, healing is possible.
(319) 313-7681 View (319) 313-7681
Photo of Brad D Hjelmeland, LISW, IADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brad D Hjelmeland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, IADC
Verified Verified
Waverly, IA 50677
I am a Licensed Independent Level Social Worker (LISW) and certified substance abuse counselor (IADC). I have been providing therapy since 2009, working in community mental health and hospital settings. I am able to work with individuals struggling with addictions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and parenting issues.
I am a Licensed Independent Level Social Worker (LISW) and certified substance abuse counselor (IADC). I have been providing therapy since 2009, working in community mental health and hospital settings. I am able to work with individuals struggling with addictions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and parenting issues.
(319) 250-2395 x3 View (319) 250-2395 x3
Photo of Derek Michael Potthoff, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Michael Potthoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
My specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, ADHD, self-harm/suicide ideation, inappropriate sexual behaviors, family and behavioral issues, low self-image, LGBTQ+, and more.
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, ADHD, self-harm/suicide ideation, inappropriate sexual behaviors, family and behavioral issues, low self-image, LGBTQ+, and more.
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
(515) 303-3557 View (515) 303-3557
Photo of Lauren Hoover-Spranger, MA, tLMHC, pLMHP, NCC, Counselor
Lauren Hoover-Spranger
Counselor, MA, tLMHC, pLMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51503  (Online Only)
I specialize in seeing clients with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, ADHD/ADD, ASD, individuals adjusting to chronic illness or disability, persons with disabilities, sexual abuse, Bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, attachment concerns, athletes, and grief.
Ideally, my clients are individuals who are looking for someone to support them on their path to healing and flourishing. Simply put, they want to feel better. My clients want to rid themselves of their racing thoughts, nightmares, sleeplessness, sadness, and overall dysfunction. They want better relationships with their loved ones. They want coping skills and techniques that will help them battle their symptoms. They also want someone who is ready to listen to them.
I specialize in seeing clients with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, ADHD/ADD, ASD, individuals adjusting to chronic illness or disability, persons with disabilities, sexual abuse, Bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, attachment concerns, athletes, and grief.
Ideally, my clients are individuals who are looking for someone to support them on their path to healing and flourishing. Simply put, they want to feel better. My clients want to rid themselves of their racing thoughts, nightmares, sleeplessness, sadness, and overall dysfunction. They want better relationships with their loved ones. They want coping skills and techniques that will help them battle their symptoms. They also want someone who is ready to listen to them.
(712) 372-5326 x208 View (712) 372-5326 x208
Photo of Kara Cirkl, LMHC, Counselor
Kara Cirkl
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302  (Online Only)
I work with anxiety, depression/mood disorders, trauma and abuse history, life changes, interpersonal conflicts, and marriage and couples counseling.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a possible counselor. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health profession. As a therapist, I employ a holistic, all inclusive, empathetic style to therapy. It is in my professional interest to provide the most effective therapy to my clients by integrating a use of therapy techniques to include Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Strength-based, Mindfulness, and incorporating empirically supported practices.
I work with anxiety, depression/mood disorders, trauma and abuse history, life changes, interpersonal conflicts, and marriage and couples counseling.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a possible counselor. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health profession. As a therapist, I employ a holistic, all inclusive, empathetic style to therapy. It is in my professional interest to provide the most effective therapy to my clients by integrating a use of therapy techniques to include Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Strength-based, Mindfulness, and incorporating empirically supported practices.
(319) 844-5991 x1 View (319) 844-5991 x1
Photo of Shawn Stepp, LMHC, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Shawn Stepp
Counselor, LMHC, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Are you struggling with your self esteem? Do you often doubt yourself? Do you feel anxious, trapped and "get in your head" a lot? Do you often feel sad or "blah." These feelings can seem overwhelming. The good news is you deserve to feel better and I can help you do this. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa and Kansas. I'm also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My practice supports those who want to create a richer, more meaningful life by reducing stress, anxiety, depression and fear. I can help you create a greater sense of self confidence and purpose. You can manifest the things you want in life!
Are you struggling with your self esteem? Do you often doubt yourself? Do you feel anxious, trapped and "get in your head" a lot? Do you often feel sad or "blah." These feelings can seem overwhelming. The good news is you deserve to feel better and I can help you do this. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa and Kansas. I'm also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My practice supports those who want to create a richer, more meaningful life by reducing stress, anxiety, depression and fear. I can help you create a greater sense of self confidence and purpose. You can manifest the things you want in life!
(319) 220-4736 View (319) 220-4736
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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.