Photo of Brooke Martin, Counselor in Iowa
Brooke Martin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52001  (Online Only)
My areas of specialties include depression, anxiety, chronic pain, trauma & PTSD, life transitions, grief, career/ goal development & achievement, relationship issues, stress & burnout.
Currently offering sessions via Telehealth (audio and video) to clients throughout the state of Iowa. I have dedicated my career to the Human Services field since 2008 and have been providing therapy since 2016. I am a certified telemental health provider.
My areas of specialties include depression, anxiety, chronic pain, trauma & PTSD, life transitions, grief, career/ goal development & achievement, relationship issues, stress & burnout.
Currently offering sessions via Telehealth (audio and video) to clients throughout the state of Iowa. I have dedicated my career to the Human Services field since 2008 and have been providing therapy since 2016. I am a certified telemental health provider.
(563) 231-7931 View (563) 231-7931
Photo of Jennifer Dolson, Counselor in Iowa
Jennifer Dolson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52002  (Online Only)
I have seven years of experience treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses, especially depression, anxiety, and anger management.
Wherever you are on your journey to healing, I’m ready to provide a listening ear and a safe space where we can work together and help you achieve your goals. I have experience serving individuals, couples, and families, and I’ll collaborate with you to build a therapy plan that works for you and your schedule. I am available to meet with you in-person or via video teletherapy.
I have seven years of experience treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses, especially depression, anxiety, and anger management.
Wherever you are on your journey to healing, I’m ready to provide a listening ear and a safe space where we can work together and help you achieve your goals. I have experience serving individuals, couples, and families, and I’ll collaborate with you to build a therapy plan that works for you and your schedule. I am available to meet with you in-person or via video teletherapy.
(563) 513-2586 View (563) 513-2586
Photo of Jeni Nash, LISW - Anxiety, Trauma and Depression, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Jeni Nash, LISW - Anxiety, Trauma and Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
(515) 221-8194 View (515) 221-8194
Photo of Christina Sowers, Counselor in Iowa
Christina Sowers
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance use that affects your day to day life? In my practice I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I can also offer a safe space with in-person and virtual appointments on a confidential platform.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance use that affects your day to day life? In my practice I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing. I help you put a plan in place to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I can also offer a safe space with in-person and virtual appointments on a confidential platform.
(319) 469-8262 View (319) 469-8262
Photo of Deanna Shafer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Deanna Shafer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RYT 200
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Deanna. I provide a safe and accepting space to help clients work towards their mental health goals. I work with adult individuals on a variety of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and stress. I practice strengths-based, trauma-informed therapy and use a variety of modalities, including mindfulness, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and solution-focused therapies. I’m an ally to members of LGBTQIA+, immigrant and refugee, BIPOC, and neurodivergent communities and particularly enjoy working with these groups. I provide services in English and Spanish.
Hi, I’m Deanna. I provide a safe and accepting space to help clients work towards their mental health goals. I work with adult individuals on a variety of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and stress. I practice strengths-based, trauma-informed therapy and use a variety of modalities, including mindfulness, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and solution-focused therapies. I’m an ally to members of LGBTQIA+, immigrant and refugee, BIPOC, and neurodivergent communities and particularly enjoy working with these groups. I provide services in English and Spanish.
(319) 224-8749 View (319) 224-8749
Photo of Willow Grove Therapy Group, Psychologist in Iowa
Willow Grove Therapy Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
Providers have experience with many concerns - anxiety, depression, family problems, relationship problems, and trauma.
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
Providers have experience with many concerns - anxiety, depression, family problems, relationship problems, and trauma.
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
(515) 393-6894 View (515) 393-6894
Photo of Karen Haas Misseldine, Counselor in Iowa
Karen Haas Misseldine
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decorah, IA 52101
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
(563) 202-2189 View (563) 202-2189
Photo of Kelson Warner, Counselor in Iowa
Kelson Warner
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
(319) 988-2878 x3 View (319) 988-2878 x3
Photo of Elise Perea, Counselor in Iowa
Elise Perea
Counselor, MEd, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402  (Online Only)
It can be hard to find a therapist if you have shift work or a full schedule, so I am offering sessions from 5am-Noon. In our office, we work on life transitions, gaining insights, making changes, improving relationships, and learning how to to feel more calm and settled. Here you can find out more about healthier coping techniques, and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of depression, ADHD and anxiety. It is a good and safe place to improve confidence and self-esteem, address parenting, marital and vocational stress, and to explore and express your identity and needs, wants and goals both personally and professionally.
It can be hard to find a therapist if you have shift work or a full schedule, so I am offering sessions from 5am-Noon. In our office, we work on life transitions, gaining insights, making changes, improving relationships, and learning how to to feel more calm and settled. Here you can find out more about healthier coping techniques, and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of depression, ADHD and anxiety. It is a good and safe place to improve confidence and self-esteem, address parenting, marital and vocational stress, and to explore and express your identity and needs, wants and goals both personally and professionally.
(319) 559-4866 View (319) 559-4866
Photo of Dr. Donald M. Kaesser, Psychologist in Iowa
Dr. Donald M. Kaesser
Psychologist, PC, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
(515) 981-6980 View (515) 981-6980
Photo of Jennifer Van Fossoon-Roelfs, Counselor in Iowa
Jennifer Van Fossoon-Roelfs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
My name is Jennifer Van Fosson-Roelfs, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist working throughout the state of Iowa providing telehealth services. I work with teens, young adults, individuals, and couples. I specialize in areas such as depression, anxiety, LGBTIQQ+, grief and trauma. My approach to therapy is based on the needs of each client when they enter therapy. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with Solution and Strength based approaches. These approaches allow me to engage with the client in creating trust and a relationship that supports growth.
My name is Jennifer Van Fosson-Roelfs, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist working throughout the state of Iowa providing telehealth services. I work with teens, young adults, individuals, and couples. I specialize in areas such as depression, anxiety, LGBTIQQ+, grief and trauma. My approach to therapy is based on the needs of each client when they enter therapy. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with Solution and Strength based approaches. These approaches allow me to engage with the client in creating trust and a relationship that supports growth.
(319) 820-0115 View (319) 820-0115
Photo of Martha Norton, Counselor in Iowa
Martha Norton
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCDP-D, IADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, and Adoption Issues.
I have over 20 years of experience as a counselor. I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experience and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiencial puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, and Adoption Issues.
I have over 20 years of experience as a counselor. I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experience and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiencial puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
(515) 462-0950 View (515) 462-0950
Photo of David Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
David Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
David specializes in: Depression; Anxiety; Stress Management; and Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health).
David received his Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Iowa and has been a practicing psychotherapist for the past 30 years. He is a Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Counseling Center of Iowa City. He has received advanced training in the areas of Ericksonian Hypnosis, Brief Therapy treatments for Depression and Anxiety, and Biofeedback and Stress management. His research and writing on the impact of chronic illness and chronic pain on individual, couple, and family functioning have received national recognition.
David specializes in: Depression; Anxiety; Stress Management; and Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health).
David received his Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Iowa and has been a practicing psychotherapist for the past 30 years. He is a Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Counseling Center of Iowa City. He has received advanced training in the areas of Ericksonian Hypnosis, Brief Therapy treatments for Depression and Anxiety, and Biofeedback and Stress management. His research and writing on the impact of chronic illness and chronic pain on individual, couple, and family functioning have received national recognition.
(319) 774-4908 View (319) 774-4908
Photo of Holly Smigel Journey Counseling Services, Counselor in Iowa
Holly Smigel Journey Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
I specialize in treating women struggling with depression and anxiety as well as a host of other mental health and life transition issues.
I have worked in a variety of mental health settings over a period of 20+ years including residential treatment for children and adults, supported living services for adults with mental illness, chemical dependency treatment, emergency/crisis counseling, biblical counseling in church settings, hospital programs for adults with chronic mental illness and vocational counseling. My areas of specialty include depression and anxiety in women. I offer individual counseling for women, children and teens. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa.
I specialize in treating women struggling with depression and anxiety as well as a host of other mental health and life transition issues.
I have worked in a variety of mental health settings over a period of 20+ years including residential treatment for children and adults, supported living services for adults with mental illness, chemical dependency treatment, emergency/crisis counseling, biblical counseling in church settings, hospital programs for adults with chronic mental illness and vocational counseling. My areas of specialty include depression and anxiety in women. I offer individual counseling for women, children and teens. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa.
(319) 313-5079 View (319) 313-5079
Photo of Farrah Bonde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Farrah Bonde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241  (Online Only)
Farrah is accepting new patients. Farrah has worked in both private and nonprofit mental health settings for over twenty years. Her clinical expertise includes working with teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of emotional, relationship, and professional challenges. Farrah has extensive experience helping clients work through trauma, divorce, life transitions, work stress, anxiety and depression. Farrah creates a safe space for her clients to be open, learn new skills and work through difficult issues while supported.
Farrah is accepting new patients. Farrah has worked in both private and nonprofit mental health settings for over twenty years. Her clinical expertise includes working with teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of emotional, relationship, and professional challenges. Farrah has extensive experience helping clients work through trauma, divorce, life transitions, work stress, anxiety and depression. Farrah creates a safe space for her clients to be open, learn new skills and work through difficult issues while supported.
(319) 250-7077 View (319) 250-7077
Photo of Bob Boezinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Bob Boezinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Bob is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and practices within a growth focused care model. He is a generalist practitioner working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents to address multiple issues including depression, self-esteem, anxiety, stress, anger management, marital/partner/family relational problems, work and school related issues and life transitions. Bob has experience working with older adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds. He also has an interest and experience working in the area of domestic violence, adjustment issues, dealing with illness and chronic pain, crisis intervention and grief and loss issues throughout the life span Bob is available for consulting.
Bob is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and practices within a growth focused care model. He is a generalist practitioner working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents to address multiple issues including depression, self-esteem, anxiety, stress, anger management, marital/partner/family relational problems, work and school related issues and life transitions. Bob has experience working with older adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds. He also has an interest and experience working in the area of domestic violence, adjustment issues, dealing with illness and chronic pain, crisis intervention and grief and loss issues throughout the life span Bob is available for consulting.
(319) 774-4199 View (319) 774-4199
Photo of Holly Conlee, Counselor in Iowa
Holly Conlee
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, anger management, serious acute/chronic illness, ADHD, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, anger management, serious acute/chronic illness, ADHD, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
(515) 882-7435 View (515) 882-7435
Photo of Shauna Huberty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Shauna Huberty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Bondurant, IA 50035  (Online Only)
I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, chronic stress, and relationship challenges. You don't have to face these challenges alone. Our sessions are a collaboration in a safe, non-judgmental space. Your needs shape the clinical approach we will take in treatment. Together, we'll build coping skills, discover your strengths, and foster lasting transformation.
I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, chronic stress, and relationship challenges. You don't have to face these challenges alone. Our sessions are a collaboration in a safe, non-judgmental space. Your needs shape the clinical approach we will take in treatment. Together, we'll build coping skills, discover your strengths, and foster lasting transformation.
(563) 281-5310 View (563) 281-5310
Photo of Red Couch Counseling LLC., Counselor in Iowa
Red Couch Counseling LLC.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
I actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
(515) 705-0288 View (515) 705-0288
Photo of Jon Hart, Counselor in Iowa
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
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.