Therapists in Victoria, MN

Photo of Julia S Fox, Counselor in Victoria, MN
Julia S Fox
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
I work with individuals 11-60 years of age, with a wide range of issues that include self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
Immediate availability for online only! Suffering is a common part of life, and as painful as it can be, it can also be a great source of change and growth. I believe a warm, accepting, and non-judgmental space is essential in order for you to feel supported in sharing your story, emotions, and participating in a change process. I place a large emphasis on the therapeutic relationship- using an integrated approach based on the needs of each individual. I also am the type of therapist that will challenge you, ask questions, provide insight, and work with you collaboratively to address what is most important to you.
I work with individuals 11-60 years of age, with a wide range of issues that include self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
Immediate availability for online only! Suffering is a common part of life, and as painful as it can be, it can also be a great source of change and growth. I believe a warm, accepting, and non-judgmental space is essential in order for you to feel supported in sharing your story, emotions, and participating in a change process. I place a large emphasis on the therapeutic relationship- using an integrated approach based on the needs of each individual. I also am the type of therapist that will challenge you, ask questions, provide insight, and work with you collaboratively to address what is most important to you.
(612) 255-1441 View (612) 255-1441
Photo of Victoria Mental Health Services, Ltd. , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Victoria Mental Health Services, Ltd.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
My clinical interests and competencies include: Conflict Resolution, Depression, Anxiety & related diagnoses, communication enhancement, parenting skills and chemical use/abuse issues.
I am a Master's Level Clinician with more than 20 years experience in Mental Health. I enjoy working with a variety of clients. I particularly enjoy providing services for: Children & Teens, Parenting Issues, Couples/Martial Therapy & processing trauma for clients. I am an EMDRIA certified clinician for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (E.M.D.R.) I am also a Certified ART - Accelerated Resolution Therapy clinician. If you are wanting more information re: the types of services which I provide, feel free to view my website: www.victoriamentalhealth.com in the Twin Cities area. Thank you for learning more about my services.
My clinical interests and competencies include: Conflict Resolution, Depression, Anxiety & related diagnoses, communication enhancement, parenting skills and chemical use/abuse issues.
I am a Master's Level Clinician with more than 20 years experience in Mental Health. I enjoy working with a variety of clients. I particularly enjoy providing services for: Children & Teens, Parenting Issues, Couples/Martial Therapy & processing trauma for clients. I am an EMDRIA certified clinician for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (E.M.D.R.) I am also a Certified ART - Accelerated Resolution Therapy clinician. If you are wanting more information re: the types of services which I provide, feel free to view my website: www.victoriamentalhealth.com in the Twin Cities area. Thank you for learning more about my services.
(952) 236-4876 View (952) 236-4876
Photo of Casandra (Casi) Leighton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Casandra (Casi) Leighton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in evidence-based treatments for Anxiety and OCD-related disorders including: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, Hair pulling (Trichotillomania), Skin Picking (Excoriation), other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, and life changes. All clients that work with me will leave with new knowledge, skills, and tools to address their unique goals and challenges.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in evidence-based treatments for Anxiety and OCD-related disorders including: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, Hair pulling (Trichotillomania), Skin Picking (Excoriation), other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, and life changes. All clients that work with me will leave with new knowledge, skills, and tools to address their unique goals and challenges.
(952) 900-5331 View (952) 900-5331
Photo of Connie M Carlson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Connie M Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
I've used Neurotherapy effectively with ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Panic, Phobia, Anger, OCD, Depression, Pain, Sleep, Brain Injured, and PTSD clients.
I am a Holistic Family Therapist, specializing in Neuro-therapy: an effective non-drug therapy that uses brain wave technologies (Neurofeedback, Alpha/Theta and Biofeedback), and psychotherapy to achieve optimal health! Feeling stuck in the "same old patterns" and traditional therapies aren't appealing? Take your brain to the gym to enhance central nervous system functioning and improve your MENTAL Performance, EMOTIONAL Control, and PHYSIOLOGICAL Stability! Imagine a therapy that is fun, involves an E.E.G., computer, movies, music, games and zero-gravity chair. I work collaboratively with you, and your feedback is key to healing, transformation, and change.
I've used Neurotherapy effectively with ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Panic, Phobia, Anger, OCD, Depression, Pain, Sleep, Brain Injured, and PTSD clients.
I am a Holistic Family Therapist, specializing in Neuro-therapy: an effective non-drug therapy that uses brain wave technologies (Neurofeedback, Alpha/Theta and Biofeedback), and psychotherapy to achieve optimal health! Feeling stuck in the "same old patterns" and traditional therapies aren't appealing? Take your brain to the gym to enhance central nervous system functioning and improve your MENTAL Performance, EMOTIONAL Control, and PHYSIOLOGICAL Stability! Imagine a therapy that is fun, involves an E.E.G., computer, movies, music, games and zero-gravity chair. I work collaboratively with you, and your feedback is key to healing, transformation, and change.
(612) 616-6113 View (612) 616-6113
Photo of Sarah Cherwien Hoel, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
Sarah Cherwien Hoel
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Victoria, MN 55386
I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, and recovery from trauma or abuse.
I am currently accepting new clients, for both in-person and telehealth sessions. People often hold their pain inside, perhaps fearing they will burden others or not get the support they need. I can help by providing a space in which you can express yourself freely. In my experience, opening up emotionally to access the core of pain is where lasting, transformative change takes place. Thus, I am committed to providing an environment in which you feel free to express your feelings, no matter how difficult, in order to lead a fuller, richer life.
I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, and recovery from trauma or abuse.
I am currently accepting new clients, for both in-person and telehealth sessions. People often hold their pain inside, perhaps fearing they will burden others or not get the support they need. I can help by providing a space in which you can express yourself freely. In my experience, opening up emotionally to access the core of pain is where lasting, transformative change takes place. Thus, I am committed to providing an environment in which you feel free to express your feelings, no matter how difficult, in order to lead a fuller, richer life.
(763) 265-6089 View (763) 265-6089

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Vicki Franzen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Vicki Franzen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Life can be so difficult & complex! If you are feeling lonely, confused, depressed or not understood, there is hope. By asking for help you have taken the first & most difficult step to feeling better. Counseling can provide a safe environment where you can share your fears and frustrations without judgment. Counseling is a place where you can learn to better understand your own wants and needs. My therapeutic style tends to be collaborative, yet direct & educational. My strength based, solution focused approach includes helping you gain insight to your emotions while better understanding how your communication skills may be impacting your relationships.
Life can be so difficult & complex! If you are feeling lonely, confused, depressed or not understood, there is hope. By asking for help you have taken the first & most difficult step to feeling better. Counseling can provide a safe environment where you can share your fears and frustrations without judgment. Counseling is a place where you can learn to better understand your own wants and needs. My therapeutic style tends to be collaborative, yet direct & educational. My strength based, solution focused approach includes helping you gain insight to your emotions while better understanding how your communication skills may be impacting your relationships.
(952) 479-5895 View (952) 479-5895
Photo of Heather Koster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Heather Koster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, ADHD, behavioral challenges, anger, divorce, family stressors or relationship conflict, or other difficult issues and emotions that interfere with your everyday life.
Are you anxious, stressed, struggling with life transitions or "stuck" in a situation you don't know how to change? Then you have already taken the first step in making a positive change for yourself and your family by visiting this website! I work with adults and couples as well as children, teens and their families. As a therapist, I seek to provide a relaxed, nonjudgmental, nurturing environment where you can learn, find insight, solve problems, and develop new ways of thinking and feeling.
I specialize in working with individuals who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, ADHD, behavioral challenges, anger, divorce, family stressors or relationship conflict, or other difficult issues and emotions that interfere with your everyday life.
Are you anxious, stressed, struggling with life transitions or "stuck" in a situation you don't know how to change? Then you have already taken the first step in making a positive change for yourself and your family by visiting this website! I work with adults and couples as well as children, teens and their families. As a therapist, I seek to provide a relaxed, nonjudgmental, nurturing environment where you can learn, find insight, solve problems, and develop new ways of thinking and feeling.
(952) 314-1907 View (952) 314-1907
Joy Hanson Fischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chaska, MN 55318
I completed a Master's of Social Work degree from the University of St. Thomas and the College of St. Catherine. As part of my education, I interned at a mental health center; providing individual, family and group therapy. I was an elementary school social worker for 8 years and have been working as a therapist for 16 years. I have worked with a variety of concerns and a variety of ages. Including; adjustments, anxiety, depression, life transitions and social concerns. I utilize many modalities of therapy and techniques-all tailored to the specific needs of the client while we build a supportive therapeutic experience.
I completed a Master's of Social Work degree from the University of St. Thomas and the College of St. Catherine. As part of my education, I interned at a mental health center; providing individual, family and group therapy. I was an elementary school social worker for 8 years and have been working as a therapist for 16 years. I have worked with a variety of concerns and a variety of ages. Including; adjustments, anxiety, depression, life transitions and social concerns. I utilize many modalities of therapy and techniques-all tailored to the specific needs of the client while we build a supportive therapeutic experience.
(952) 314-6469 View (952) 314-6469
Photo of Cynthia Gill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Cynthia Gill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Excelsior, MN 55331
A client who comes to me with honesty, is willing to work towards their goals is an ideal client. Anxiety, trauma, depression and family problems are problems that I treat with skill and sensitivity. Parents who need help parenting, children who suffer from a trauma, teens who are depressed and stressed out, couples who can't figure out why they are fighting so much when they really love each other, wives who struggle with low self esteem, people of any age who are very lonely, all need someone to help them sort out their challenges. "We are all just trying to do life!" That often that means asking for help.
A client who comes to me with honesty, is willing to work towards their goals is an ideal client. Anxiety, trauma, depression and family problems are problems that I treat with skill and sensitivity. Parents who need help parenting, children who suffer from a trauma, teens who are depressed and stressed out, couples who can't figure out why they are fighting so much when they really love each other, wives who struggle with low self esteem, people of any age who are very lonely, all need someone to help them sort out their challenges. "We are all just trying to do life!" That often that means asking for help.
(952) 213-4482 View (952) 213-4482
Photo of Renata Tinoco Stephens, Pre-Licensed Professional in Victoria, MN
Renata Tinoco Stephens
Pre-Licensed Professional
Not Verified Not Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
I work with clients of all ages and with symptoms related, but not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, and sexuality.
I believe that each individual frames their life from their experiences. Such experiences can cause distress, sometimes making life unbearable. I invite clients in the direction of the unconscious mental process to create healing and promote change. With wholeheartedness and non-judgemental support, I offer a deep journey in search of keys to unveil the answers that lie within. I help clients to find insight, and cope with the underlying causes of emotional and psychological symptoms. I suppose that it is through telling one's unique story, that one can re-write it.
I work with clients of all ages and with symptoms related, but not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, and sexuality.
I believe that each individual frames their life from their experiences. Such experiences can cause distress, sometimes making life unbearable. I invite clients in the direction of the unconscious mental process to create healing and promote change. With wholeheartedness and non-judgemental support, I offer a deep journey in search of keys to unveil the answers that lie within. I help clients to find insight, and cope with the underlying causes of emotional and psychological symptoms. I suppose that it is through telling one's unique story, that one can re-write it.
(612) 260-9256 View (612) 260-9256
Photo of Lisa Wald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Lisa Wald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
For adolescents and adults in the midst of transition, loss or difficulty, finding real help can seem like a dicey proposition. Often people find themselves depressed, anxious, numb or lost, but might feel too ashamed to let others know the extent of their growing unhappiness. Many try to manage their worry in secret, only transmitting their distress after their work/school performance slips, they self-harm or start to abuse chemicals. Family and friends may actively worry about them, but not know how to start the conversation or how to get their loved one help.
For adolescents and adults in the midst of transition, loss or difficulty, finding real help can seem like a dicey proposition. Often people find themselves depressed, anxious, numb or lost, but might feel too ashamed to let others know the extent of their growing unhappiness. Many try to manage their worry in secret, only transmitting their distress after their work/school performance slips, they self-harm or start to abuse chemicals. Family and friends may actively worry about them, but not know how to start the conversation or how to get their loved one help.
(612) 294-8281 View (612) 294-8281
Photo of Jan Search, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Victoria, MN
Jan Search
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
I have worked with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Couples, and Parents for over 30 years providing therapy with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, attention and distractibility problems, eating disorders, and problem behaviors interfering with success in personal, school/work relationships.
Working together toward change, I place importance of the relationship with you in the therapy and emphasize getting to know you as an individual. We work toward your goals by exploring, not just your behavior, but the underlying feelings and thoughts which get in the way of your ability to make the changes you desire.
I have worked with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Couples, and Parents for over 30 years providing therapy with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, attention and distractibility problems, eating disorders, and problem behaviors interfering with success in personal, school/work relationships.
Working together toward change, I place importance of the relationship with you in the therapy and emphasize getting to know you as an individual. We work toward your goals by exploring, not just your behavior, but the underlying feelings and thoughts which get in the way of your ability to make the changes you desire.
(651) 760-8037 View (651) 760-8037
Photo of Jill Magnuson, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
Jill Magnuson
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
(952) 260-0350 View (952) 260-0350
Photo of Melissa Erickson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Victoria, MN
Melissa Erickson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Excelsior, MN 55331
I specialize in working with clients 9 - 65+ years old. Clinical expertise includes 20+ years of experience working with clients who have concerns related to: grief & bereavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic abuse, relationship conflict, family conflict due to: separation or divorce, parenting issues, boundaries, unemployment & financial problems, illness or disability of a family member, taking on a caretaker role for a child, and/or parent, or both. Sudden death, long term illness of a family member, and dealing with mental illness within the family system.
I specialize in working with clients 9 - 65+ years old. Clinical expertise includes 20+ years of experience working with clients who have concerns related to: grief & bereavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic abuse, relationship conflict, family conflict due to: separation or divorce, parenting issues, boundaries, unemployment & financial problems, illness or disability of a family member, taking on a caretaker role for a child, and/or parent, or both. Sudden death, long term illness of a family member, and dealing with mental illness within the family system.
(763) 284-8698 View (763) 284-8698
Photo of Tracy L Kotval, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Victoria, MN
Tracy L Kotval
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Shakopee, MN 55379
Are you struggling with uncertainty and stress? Do you feel socially isolated or depressed? Have you lost a job or been laid off? Do you need support? I offer in person and online therapy. My approach is short term, practical, collaborative and results-oriented. I primarily use Narrative Therapy when working with individuals, couples, children, and families by focusing on the problem and investigating possible solutions and teach coping skills. Play Therapy is often used when working with children. I am in network with most insurance.
Are you struggling with uncertainty and stress? Do you feel socially isolated or depressed? Have you lost a job or been laid off? Do you need support? I offer in person and online therapy. My approach is short term, practical, collaborative and results-oriented. I primarily use Narrative Therapy when working with individuals, couples, children, and families by focusing on the problem and investigating possible solutions and teach coping skills. Play Therapy is often used when working with children. I am in network with most insurance.
(952) 856-8622 View (952) 856-8622
Photo of Nicole Lovald in Victoria, MN
Nicole Lovald
MS, LAMFT, RYT500
Verified Verified
Excelsior, MN 55331
Currently accepting new clients: Individuals, adolescents, couples and families! If you are looking for a compassionate therapist to support you in your healing and happiness, you have come to the right place. Using a holistic approach to overall health and well-being, I assist client's in doing the work necessary to feel better. Some of my specialties include stress management, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, pain management, chronic health conditions, relationships, veterans/military families and first responders.
Currently accepting new clients: Individuals, adolescents, couples and families! If you are looking for a compassionate therapist to support you in your healing and happiness, you have come to the right place. Using a holistic approach to overall health and well-being, I assist client's in doing the work necessary to feel better. Some of my specialties include stress management, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, pain management, chronic health conditions, relationships, veterans/military families and first responders.
(763) 296-7490 View (763) 296-7490
Photo of Sunni Myers, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Victoria, MN
Sunni Myers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Wayzata, MN 55391
Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) - Sunni is a licensed mental health and chemical health therapist who has a passion of working with individuals across the lifespan. She has spent her career working with children, teens, and adults. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, Autism, trauma, and co-occurring chemical dependency/mental illness. Her focus is to help individuals achieve overall wellness and happiness while utilizing a strengths based approach to empower change and challenge negative perceptions of self.
Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) - Sunni is a licensed mental health and chemical health therapist who has a passion of working with individuals across the lifespan. She has spent her career working with children, teens, and adults. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, Autism, trauma, and co-occurring chemical dependency/mental illness. Her focus is to help individuals achieve overall wellness and happiness while utilizing a strengths based approach to empower change and challenge negative perceptions of self.
(952) 260-6756 View (952) 260-6756
Photo of Melissa Urbanek Therapy PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Victoria, MN
Melissa Urbanek Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345  (Online Only)
Ugh, there is nothing worse than worrying about your child! If it's anxiety, a phobia, depression, difficulty in school or with peers...whatever it is.... I know it is hard. Looking for help can be hard too. My name is Melissa Urbanek. I really LOVE what I do. I get to work with young people to support them and help them through whatever it is that is getting in their way. I am a telehealth therapist that serves clients in Minnesota & Wisconsin. I specialize in working with children, teens, college age and young adults. I love to be playful and make therapy a good experience for all of my clients!
Ugh, there is nothing worse than worrying about your child! If it's anxiety, a phobia, depression, difficulty in school or with peers...whatever it is.... I know it is hard. Looking for help can be hard too. My name is Melissa Urbanek. I really LOVE what I do. I get to work with young people to support them and help them through whatever it is that is getting in their way. I am a telehealth therapist that serves clients in Minnesota & Wisconsin. I specialize in working with children, teens, college age and young adults. I love to be playful and make therapy a good experience for all of my clients!
(651) 358-2150 View (651) 358-2150
Darryl Ross Goetz
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY for personal issues of depression/anxiety, adult emotional growth & health, adolescent emotional health, emotional & behavioral coaching for professional competence and success, loss & grief, family of origin issues, eating disorders, and living with chronic illness or disability.
Dr. Goetz is dedicated to promoting the Emotional, Psychological, Physical, and Relationship Health of Children, Youth, Adults, Couples, and Families. It is Dr. Goetz' philosophy of therapy to maximize the healthy development of each family member and enhance both individual and family strengths and resiliency.The Core Values of his work include: forming a therapeutic and equal partnership with clients in their quest for emotional and relationship health; and forming a partnership with other health care service providers when they are involved.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY for personal issues of depression/anxiety, adult emotional growth & health, adolescent emotional health, emotional & behavioral coaching for professional competence and success, loss & grief, family of origin issues, eating disorders, and living with chronic illness or disability.
Dr. Goetz is dedicated to promoting the Emotional, Psychological, Physical, and Relationship Health of Children, Youth, Adults, Couples, and Families. It is Dr. Goetz' philosophy of therapy to maximize the healthy development of each family member and enhance both individual and family strengths and resiliency.The Core Values of his work include: forming a therapeutic and equal partnership with clients in their quest for emotional and relationship health; and forming a partnership with other health care service providers when they are involved.
(612) 294-8422 View (612) 294-8422
Photo of Andrea L Johnson, Psychologist in Victoria, MN
Andrea L Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
I enjoy working with a variety of issues: anxiety, depression, and ADHD/learning disabilities/2e.
Hello, I am a doctorate level licensed psychologist in Edina, MN. I've been in private practice for more than 20 years but have been working with children and families for over 30 years. I work primarily with teens and college students/young adults as well as adults, families, and provide parent support. I am holistic in my approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and integrative health approaches to improving emotional health. I think the most important part of initiating therapy is finding a therapist that you connect with and is a 'good fit'.
I enjoy working with a variety of issues: anxiety, depression, and ADHD/learning disabilities/2e.
Hello, I am a doctorate level licensed psychologist in Edina, MN. I've been in private practice for more than 20 years but have been working with children and families for over 30 years. I work primarily with teens and college students/young adults as well as adults, families, and provide parent support. I am holistic in my approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and integrative health approaches to improving emotional health. I think the most important part of initiating therapy is finding a therapist that you connect with and is a 'good fit'.
(952) 314-5503 View (952) 314-5503

See more therapy options for Victoria

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.