Depression Therapists in Penobscot County, ME

Photo of Rori Knott, Counselor in Penobscot County, ME
Rori Knott
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Individuals with Depression and Anxiety have been a large part of my practice as well.
Welcome, you are exploring the world of counseling. These steps however small or large can feel like a relief and also provoke anxiety. Whatever your experience may be, I look forward to meeting you. My goal is to collaborate with those who seek my services, I greatly value your ideas and thoughts. Together, we can identify how best to meet your needs and address your goals.
Individuals with Depression and Anxiety have been a large part of my practice as well.
Welcome, you are exploring the world of counseling. These steps however small or large can feel like a relief and also provoke anxiety. Whatever your experience may be, I look forward to meeting you. My goal is to collaborate with those who seek my services, I greatly value your ideas and thoughts. Together, we can identify how best to meet your needs and address your goals.
(207) 517-0155 View (207) 517-0155
Photo of Rachel R Benson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Rachel R Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC, CCS, LADC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
As a licensed clinical therapist and alcohol and drug counselor with over 16 years of experience, I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, allowing the client to be in control. I specialize in Trauma, Addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and Depression/Anxiety counseling. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups aged 8+. I believe the most important facet of the counseling process is a positive therapeutic relationship and utilize empathy and compassion, along with a non-judgmental stance, to facilitate healthy therapeutic relationships with my clients. I look forward to working with you soon!
As a licensed clinical therapist and alcohol and drug counselor with over 16 years of experience, I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, allowing the client to be in control. I specialize in Trauma, Addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and Depression/Anxiety counseling. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups aged 8+. I believe the most important facet of the counseling process is a positive therapeutic relationship and utilize empathy and compassion, along with a non-judgmental stance, to facilitate healthy therapeutic relationships with my clients. I look forward to working with you soon!
(207) 204-3998 View (207) 204-3998
Photo of Denise M. Nickerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Denise M. Nickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I have experience working with those affected by trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions. I have worked in the Bangor community for most of my career with a local agency, as well as a mental health hospital providing intensive outpatient counseling. I will teach you strategies to help you manage your symptoms and emotions. I will be your biggest cheerleader and support. I will provide guidance and suggestions during your healing journey. We are a team.
I have experience working with those affected by trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions. I have worked in the Bangor community for most of my career with a local agency, as well as a mental health hospital providing intensive outpatient counseling. I will teach you strategies to help you manage your symptoms and emotions. I will be your biggest cheerleader and support. I will provide guidance and suggestions during your healing journey. We are a team.
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Photo of Tanya Shan, Psychologist in Penobscot County, ME
Tanya Shan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I provide treatment for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment and transition issues, relationship concerns, substance abuse disorders and post-traumatic stress.
Whatever brings someone to therapy, it generally includes some form of pain, dissatisfaction, or discomfort, and a disconnect between what is happening their life and what they want. Our work together will help to shed light on why you are struggling, and support you as you make changes, drawing on your strengths to find an approach that is more effective and aligned with how you want your life to be. I believe that effective therapy starts with a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental emotional space where clients can feel heard and understood and my work is grounded in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
I provide treatment for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment and transition issues, relationship concerns, substance abuse disorders and post-traumatic stress.
Whatever brings someone to therapy, it generally includes some form of pain, dissatisfaction, or discomfort, and a disconnect between what is happening their life and what they want. Our work together will help to shed light on why you are struggling, and support you as you make changes, drawing on your strengths to find an approach that is more effective and aligned with how you want your life to be. I believe that effective therapy starts with a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental emotional space where clients can feel heard and understood and my work is grounded in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
(207) 204-3879 View (207) 204-3879
Photo of Kara M Knaide, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Kara M Knaide
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
I focus primarily on anxiety, depression, self harm, relationship issues, parenting, stress and life transitions.
I believe that we all come to a place in our lives, maybe once, maybe at several points, where we need support to reach our goals.  My focus is to work with you on identifying your obstacles, moving them aside and achieving a happier, healthier life.  My hope is to provide a safe, nurturing space free of judgement, for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Whatever your reasons may be for seeking support, I want you to feel empowered to achieve your goals.  I believe you are the expert and my job is to support, guide, and make recommendations, but ultimately this is your journey.
I focus primarily on anxiety, depression, self harm, relationship issues, parenting, stress and life transitions.
I believe that we all come to a place in our lives, maybe once, maybe at several points, where we need support to reach our goals.  My focus is to work with you on identifying your obstacles, moving them aside and achieving a happier, healthier life.  My hope is to provide a safe, nurturing space free of judgement, for you to process your thoughts and feelings. Whatever your reasons may be for seeking support, I want you to feel empowered to achieve your goals.  I believe you are the expert and my job is to support, guide, and make recommendations, but ultimately this is your journey.
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Photo of Priscilla M. Goss, LCSW, LADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Priscilla M. Goss, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Not Verified Not Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Now that your ready for therapy we can resolve issues of abuse, anxiety, relationships, anger, parenting, grief and, depression.
Are you ready for change in your life? Do you want healing from past traumas, disappointments or losses? Do you want to feel your in control of your life, and be able to deal with issues causing distress? As your Therapist, I am committed to working with you to progress toward meeting your goals. I believe in your ability to achieve them. I offer you a genuine, caring, non-judgmental, professional relationship where you will feel comfortable and be able to accomplish positive growth. I welcome a call from you with any questions. Let's work together toward your wellness!
Now that your ready for therapy we can resolve issues of abuse, anxiety, relationships, anger, parenting, grief and, depression.
Are you ready for change in your life? Do you want healing from past traumas, disappointments or losses? Do you want to feel your in control of your life, and be able to deal with issues causing distress? As your Therapist, I am committed to working with you to progress toward meeting your goals. I believe in your ability to achieve them. I offer you a genuine, caring, non-judgmental, professional relationship where you will feel comfortable and be able to accomplish positive growth. I welcome a call from you with any questions. Let's work together toward your wellness!
(207) 613-0405 View (207) 613-0405
Photo of Jane Elizabeth Beaudoin, Counselor in Penobscot County, ME
Jane Elizabeth Beaudoin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, ME 04457  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients for telehealth only phone or video. Do you want to alleviate emotional suffering and improve your mental well-being? Have your unhelpful thought patterns taken over your life? Gain control over your thoughts, emotions, and feelings and find more positive ways to deal with life's ups and downs. We are all especially challenged in these times it seems! Together we can work to challenge and change maladaptive thinking patterns that cause anxiety, depression and other emotional issues. It's never too late to create a happier, and more peaceful life! Call me! Telehealth only. Mainecare clients or self pay ($75/hr)
Accepting new clients for telehealth only phone or video. Do you want to alleviate emotional suffering and improve your mental well-being? Have your unhelpful thought patterns taken over your life? Gain control over your thoughts, emotions, and feelings and find more positive ways to deal with life's ups and downs. We are all especially challenged in these times it seems! Together we can work to challenge and change maladaptive thinking patterns that cause anxiety, depression and other emotional issues. It's never too late to create a happier, and more peaceful life! Call me! Telehealth only. Mainecare clients or self pay ($75/hr)
(207) 263-0379 View (207) 263-0379
Photo of Jarrid Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Jarrid Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Hello, If you find that you are at a loss in handling stress, anxiety or frustration, I am hopeful that you will find relief in our work together. Sessions include discovering new ways to cope, including cognitive and mindfulness-based skill building. My practice is focused on helping with recovery from stress related to trauma, anxiety, depression and substance use. Thank you, Jarrid Jones, LCSW, LADC, CCS. My practice is focused on the following areas: Parenting Relationship Issues Stress related to anxiety/depression Substance Use Trauma and PTSD
Hello, If you find that you are at a loss in handling stress, anxiety or frustration, I am hopeful that you will find relief in our work together. Sessions include discovering new ways to cope, including cognitive and mindfulness-based skill building. My practice is focused on helping with recovery from stress related to trauma, anxiety, depression and substance use. Thank you, Jarrid Jones, LCSW, LADC, CCS. My practice is focused on the following areas: Parenting Relationship Issues Stress related to anxiety/depression Substance Use Trauma and PTSD
(207) 742-7239 View (207) 742-7239
Photo of Deborah Lee in Penobscot County, ME
Deborah Lee
APRN, CNS, therapy
Verified Verified
Brewer, ME 04412
Thanks for your interest in my work. I look forward to hearing from you! Whether you are anxious, lonely, depressed, recovering from trauma, or have relationship issues, I am here to support, guide and empower you with tools that help you meet your goals. I also offer grief counseling and help with any life changes. These are a few of the concerns I can help with. Additionally, my clients tend to recover more fully and readily because of my comprehensive approach. If you are ready to take control of your health and healing, I will be your biggest cheerleader!
Thanks for your interest in my work. I look forward to hearing from you! Whether you are anxious, lonely, depressed, recovering from trauma, or have relationship issues, I am here to support, guide and empower you with tools that help you meet your goals. I also offer grief counseling and help with any life changes. These are a few of the concerns I can help with. Additionally, my clients tend to recover more fully and readily because of my comprehensive approach. If you are ready to take control of your health and healing, I will be your biggest cheerleader!
(207) 618-7948 View (207) 618-7948
Photo of Heather Jackson, Counselor in Penobscot County, ME
Heather Jackson
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
I work with a wide range of ages from 12 years old through adulthood with a vast range of struggles including anxiety, depression, ADHD, suicidal thoughts, social struggles, trauma, and grief.
Making the choice to start therapy can be a scary step. I believe that every client should be supported by a therapist who brings a sense of realness, support, encouragement, and knowledge to each and every session. You should be able to walk into every session with a feeling of comfort and safety discussing your struggles. My goal is to bring those qualities while helping clients find relief, understanding, and their purpose.
I work with a wide range of ages from 12 years old through adulthood with a vast range of struggles including anxiety, depression, ADHD, suicidal thoughts, social struggles, trauma, and grief.
Making the choice to start therapy can be a scary step. I believe that every client should be supported by a therapist who brings a sense of realness, support, encouragement, and knowledge to each and every session. You should be able to walk into every session with a feeling of comfort and safety discussing your struggles. My goal is to bring those qualities while helping clients find relief, understanding, and their purpose.
(207) 956-5977 x10 View (207) 956-5977 x10
Photo of Lisa Leadbetter, Counselor in Penobscot County, ME
Lisa Leadbetter
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
There can be barriers to therapy including privacy, transportation, and being too busy to make an appointment. For those living with challenges like provider burnout, anxiety, depression, professional identity, addictions, effects of trauma, abuse, or low self esteem; online teletherapy can help with the added benefit of engaging with your therapist at a time and place that is not only convenient, but private. There is decades of research that demonstrates therapy can help, and quickly. Please email me and let me answer any other questions you might have. I look forward to hearing from you. E-mail is the best way to contact me.
There can be barriers to therapy including privacy, transportation, and being too busy to make an appointment. For those living with challenges like provider burnout, anxiety, depression, professional identity, addictions, effects of trauma, abuse, or low self esteem; online teletherapy can help with the added benefit of engaging with your therapist at a time and place that is not only convenient, but private. There is decades of research that demonstrates therapy can help, and quickly. Please email me and let me answer any other questions you might have. I look forward to hearing from you. E-mail is the best way to contact me.
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Photo of Licia M Daniels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Licia M Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Some of my areas of specialty include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, parenting & relationship issues, as well as grief & loss.
No matter your situation or story, I believe you deserve to experience hope, healing, happiness, and personal growth. My role is to be a positive and encouraging support to you as you move through your therapeutic journey. My goal is to provide a safe, open, and supportive space for you to explore and work through whatever challenges you may be facing. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and solution focused as we work together at a pace that feels best for you.
Some of my areas of specialty include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, parenting & relationship issues, as well as grief & loss.
No matter your situation or story, I believe you deserve to experience hope, healing, happiness, and personal growth. My role is to be a positive and encouraging support to you as you move through your therapeutic journey. My goal is to provide a safe, open, and supportive space for you to explore and work through whatever challenges you may be facing. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and solution focused as we work together at a pace that feels best for you.
(207) 956-5977 x28 View (207) 956-5977 x28
Photo of Dr. Scott Flagg, Psychologist in Penobscot County, ME
Dr. Scott Flagg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I am a mindfulness influenced, cognitive-behavioral therapist who provides services that include psychological evaluations and individual/couples/family therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults with a variety of issues including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Bipolar disorder, and Self-regulation concerns. I also teach a variety of meditative techniques with an emphasis on compassion and self-awareness. I am a graduate of Florida State University and hold a combined PhD in Counseling and School Psychology. Call today to see how I can help you!
I am a mindfulness influenced, cognitive-behavioral therapist who provides services that include psychological evaluations and individual/couples/family therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults with a variety of issues including: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Bipolar disorder, and Self-regulation concerns. I also teach a variety of meditative techniques with an emphasis on compassion and self-awareness. I am a graduate of Florida State University and hold a combined PhD in Counseling and School Psychology. Call today to see how I can help you!
(207) 514-0643 View (207) 514-0643
Photo of Ellen Sherwood, Counselor in Penobscot County, ME
Ellen Sherwood
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04402  (Online Only)
I believe all human behavior is oriented toward growth, no matter how misguided or "crazy" it may seem. Perhaps you feel out of balance with your emotions, relationships, work, or spirit. You may be experiencing a crisis, a life transition, or simply desire to know yourself better. My practice is limited to individual psychotherapy with adults. I'm trained to work with anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as the deeper unconscious influences to emotions, thoughts, and behavior. Our work is guided by your specific concerns and what you wish to change. My aim is to provide a safe and respectful space for self-exploration.
I believe all human behavior is oriented toward growth, no matter how misguided or "crazy" it may seem. Perhaps you feel out of balance with your emotions, relationships, work, or spirit. You may be experiencing a crisis, a life transition, or simply desire to know yourself better. My practice is limited to individual psychotherapy with adults. I'm trained to work with anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as the deeper unconscious influences to emotions, thoughts, and behavior. Our work is guided by your specific concerns and what you wish to change. My aim is to provide a safe and respectful space for self-exploration.
(207) 518-7473 View (207) 518-7473
Photo of Lori A Melhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Lori A Melhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-I, CIMHP, CASDCS
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in trauma, relationship issues, including any kind of break up, anxiety, depression, problem solving, self esteem, and parenting.
If you are looking for some help, I want you to know how much I respect that. Let's consider working together to help you move forward and take back control of your life. How are you feeling these days? Could you be managing your stressors better? When our coping skills are not as strong as possible, everything piled on top tends to feel heavier and causes more damage. Let's strengthen your identity, your strength, your mood, your relationships and your outlook for the future. Contact me for a phone consult!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in trauma, relationship issues, including any kind of break up, anxiety, depression, problem solving, self esteem, and parenting.
If you are looking for some help, I want you to know how much I respect that. Let's consider working together to help you move forward and take back control of your life. How are you feeling these days? Could you be managing your stressors better? When our coping skills are not as strong as possible, everything piled on top tends to feel heavier and causes more damage. Let's strengthen your identity, your strength, your mood, your relationships and your outlook for the future. Contact me for a phone consult!
(630) 489-6205 View (630) 489-6205
Photo of Cheryl A Dury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Cheryl A Dury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I have worked with children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic pain and illnesses, trauma and sexual abuse.
Do you find yourself spending so much time taking care of other people's needs that your own needs are not met? Do you feel that you have lost your voice or never really had one? Do you have a persistent feeling of not being 'good enough'? Are you unclear about the direction of your life? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic space to explore the issues that are troubling you. I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy. Art therapy can help with expressing and exploring feelings when words are not enough and can help with somatic issues. No art experience necessary! I am licensed in Connecticut, Maine and Ohio.
I have worked with children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic pain and illnesses, trauma and sexual abuse.
Do you find yourself spending so much time taking care of other people's needs that your own needs are not met? Do you feel that you have lost your voice or never really had one? Do you have a persistent feeling of not being 'good enough'? Are you unclear about the direction of your life? I provide a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic space to explore the issues that are troubling you. I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy. Art therapy can help with expressing and exploring feelings when words are not enough and can help with somatic issues. No art experience necessary! I am licensed in Connecticut, Maine and Ohio.
(207) 492-4450 View (207) 492-4450
Photo of Lucinda McGarvin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Lucinda McGarvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(720) 903-1158 View (720) 903-1158
Photo of Jennie L. Barnes, LCSW/Renew Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Jennie L. Barnes, LCSW/Renew Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
You’re a capable, resourceful adult others turn to but when your life stops making sense, who do you turn to? Hi, I’m Jennie and I’ve helped adults cope with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, work and caregiver stress. Creative and high-capacity people often find their way to me (neurodiversity welcomed). I supported individuals from varied backgrounds: grad students; farm-steading parents of young children; first responders, teachers and nurses; military family members; government employees and creatives. I understand both metropolitan “hustle culture” and rural/small town dynamics, each with its own strengths and demands.
You’re a capable, resourceful adult others turn to but when your life stops making sense, who do you turn to? Hi, I’m Jennie and I’ve helped adults cope with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, work and caregiver stress. Creative and high-capacity people often find their way to me (neurodiversity welcomed). I supported individuals from varied backgrounds: grad students; farm-steading parents of young children; first responders, teachers and nurses; military family members; government employees and creatives. I understand both metropolitan “hustle culture” and rural/small town dynamics, each with its own strengths and demands.
(207) 250-4269 View (207) 250-4269
Photo of Dennis Baker, Clinical Professional Counselor in Penobscot County, ME
Dennis Baker
Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
Whether you’re living with trauma, dealing with depression, struggling with anger, or just searching for something you know is missing, therapy can help.
Now Accepting New Clients - There’s no denying it, sometimes life can be really hard. And in addition to the many things happening outside ourselves, we all tend to get in our own way as well. We all sometimes think, feel, or do things that aren’t consistent with the person we want to be. This is completely normal, but it doesn’t have to be that way, and I’d like to help you make it better.
Whether you’re living with trauma, dealing with depression, struggling with anger, or just searching for something you know is missing, therapy can help.
Now Accepting New Clients - There’s no denying it, sometimes life can be really hard. And in addition to the many things happening outside ourselves, we all tend to get in our own way as well. We all sometimes think, feel, or do things that aren’t consistent with the person we want to be. This is completely normal, but it doesn’t have to be that way, and I’d like to help you make it better.
(207) 994-8632 View (207) 994-8632
Photo of Dede Ragot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Penobscot County, ME
Dede Ragot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Waitlist for new clients
My scope of practice includes trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA, interpersonal issues, bereavement, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss, parenting, aging, and isolation/loneliness.
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of varied experience in the field. I provide telehealth and traditional in office sessions. Life comes with so many stressors and challenges. I believe that everyone deserves to have support and help along the way. I provide a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to address whatever struggles you may be facing. I offer a safe and inclusive space in which to process, develop coping skills, and learn grounding strategies to increase resilience and wellbeing.
My scope of practice includes trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA, interpersonal issues, bereavement, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss, parenting, aging, and isolation/loneliness.
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of varied experience in the field. I provide telehealth and traditional in office sessions. Life comes with so many stressors and challenges. I believe that everyone deserves to have support and help along the way. I provide a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to address whatever struggles you may be facing. I offer a safe and inclusive space in which to process, develop coping skills, and learn grounding strategies to increase resilience and wellbeing.
(207) 436-8114 View (207) 436-8114

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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.