Photo of Brittany Reading, Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Brittany Reading
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
I frequently work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety and depression.
Life can be tough - and we are not meant to go through life alone! Many of the individuals that I work with feel like they have gotten to a place where they feel overwhelmed and need a space to process this stress with someone other than friends or partner. These folks typically include students (from undergraduates to the doctoral level), parents of young children, and individuals in high-stress jobs (educators, healthcare professionals), and people who are exploring their own identity. I enjoy working with people 18+ in an individual setting to help reconnect with their most authentic selves.
I frequently work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety and depression.
Life can be tough - and we are not meant to go through life alone! Many of the individuals that I work with feel like they have gotten to a place where they feel overwhelmed and need a space to process this stress with someone other than friends or partner. These folks typically include students (from undergraduates to the doctoral level), parents of young children, and individuals in high-stress jobs (educators, healthcare professionals), and people who are exploring their own identity. I enjoy working with people 18+ in an individual setting to help reconnect with their most authentic selves.
(651) 409-5774 View (651) 409-5774
Photo of Jari Welle, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Jari Welle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT500
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
Do you feel sad or anxious daily? Is this getting in the way of you living the life you really want to live? My approach in working with clients involves empowering, emotionally focused work, which includes building a connection for better growth during your therapy journey. I believe in supporting each client along the path of their own healing journey toward positive transformation, and in doing so, helping clients live a more happy and balanced life. I enjoy seeing clients with relationship issues, depression and anxiety.
Do you feel sad or anxious daily? Is this getting in the way of you living the life you really want to live? My approach in working with clients involves empowering, emotionally focused work, which includes building a connection for better growth during your therapy journey. I believe in supporting each client along the path of their own healing journey toward positive transformation, and in doing so, helping clients live a more happy and balanced life. I enjoy seeing clients with relationship issues, depression and anxiety.
(651) 433-6295 View (651) 433-6295
Photo of Dan Hinderaker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Dan Hinderaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I work with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma history, emotional regulation and/or distress tolerance, anger and behavioral issues, grief, sexual preference/identity and relationship problems.
Hello! As a psychotherapist, I will strive to connect with you, support you, and help you identify and achieve your goals. Therapy can be as simple as learning new tools, or it can be a more complex and deeper process. For example, anxiety and depression can be indicators of deeper wounds or that a person has gone off course in some way. In either case, working with me is a dance between treating problems and building on strengths. Whatever the nature of your therapy, I believe everyone has the power to heal, grow, and reach their full potential emotionally, intellectually and physically.
I work with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma history, emotional regulation and/or distress tolerance, anger and behavioral issues, grief, sexual preference/identity and relationship problems.
Hello! As a psychotherapist, I will strive to connect with you, support you, and help you identify and achieve your goals. Therapy can be as simple as learning new tools, or it can be a more complex and deeper process. For example, anxiety and depression can be indicators of deeper wounds or that a person has gone off course in some way. In either case, working with me is a dance between treating problems and building on strengths. Whatever the nature of your therapy, I believe everyone has the power to heal, grow, and reach their full potential emotionally, intellectually and physically.
(651) 571-4841 View (651) 571-4841
Sheila Conlin
Psychologist, MA, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I find that it is most helpful to speak on the phone initially when sorting out whether you would be comfortable working with me and to see whether I can be helpful with the issues that you are facing. I have worked as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for over twenty years. I have experience with a wide range of diagnoses including depression and anxiety. My caseload includes adults, adolescents and children. I see families and couples who are struggling with relationships, mental health problems and adjustment to life's developmental challenges.
I find that it is most helpful to speak on the phone initially when sorting out whether you would be comfortable working with me and to see whether I can be helpful with the issues that you are facing. I have worked as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for over twenty years. I have experience with a wide range of diagnoses including depression and anxiety. My caseload includes adults, adolescents and children. I see families and couples who are struggling with relationships, mental health problems and adjustment to life's developmental challenges.
(651) 674-3819 View (651) 674-3819
Photo of Terri M Ulschmid, Licensed Professional Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Terri M Ulschmid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, spirituality, addiction and recovery, dialectical behavioral therapy, LGBTQIA issues, stress management, women’s issues, grief, and transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a pattern that appears to be repeating? Are you continuing to tell stories, and some can be painful to hold I work with people who experience stress and anxiety, grief and depression. We will do this by naming patterns and I will teach you how to regulate your emotions, learn how to communicate with others by standing up for yourself, and tolerate your emotions through difficult life events and stressful situations without making them worse.
My specialties include: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, spirituality, addiction and recovery, dialectical behavioral therapy, LGBTQIA issues, stress management, women’s issues, grief, and transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a pattern that appears to be repeating? Are you continuing to tell stories, and some can be painful to hold I work with people who experience stress and anxiety, grief and depression. We will do this by naming patterns and I will teach you how to regulate your emotions, learn how to communicate with others by standing up for yourself, and tolerate your emotions through difficult life events and stressful situations without making them worse.
(651) 538-1303 View (651) 538-1303
Photo of Jessica Dresden, Psychologist in White Bear Lake, MN
Jessica Dresden
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I have specialized training using evidence-based approaches to successfully help individuals (ages 5-99+) address: Anxiety, Fears/Phobias, Social Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Shame/Guilt, Low Self-Esteem, Emotional Dysregulation, Life Transitions/Stressors, and Parenting Challenges.
Hello! I am so glad you are taking the first steps in seeking support. In our work together you can expect me to be down to earth, kind, and personable. Together we will identify practical, concrete solutions to address your concerns while processing and working through deeper issues or stressors that are keeping you stuck. I will both challenge and support you. I am upfront and open with my clients in a gentle way and I flex my approach based upon your unique needs.
I have specialized training using evidence-based approaches to successfully help individuals (ages 5-99+) address: Anxiety, Fears/Phobias, Social Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Shame/Guilt, Low Self-Esteem, Emotional Dysregulation, Life Transitions/Stressors, and Parenting Challenges.
Hello! I am so glad you are taking the first steps in seeking support. In our work together you can expect me to be down to earth, kind, and personable. Together we will identify practical, concrete solutions to address your concerns while processing and working through deeper issues or stressors that are keeping you stuck. I will both challenge and support you. I am upfront and open with my clients in a gentle way and I flex my approach based upon your unique needs.
(651) 571-8204 View (651) 571-8204
Photo of Jacob Spehar in White Bear Lake, MN
Jacob Spehar
MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, job stress, grief, trauma related issues, chronic pain or addiction. I'm here to support you by developing a trusting relationship as you navigate the challenges of life. Being in the field for over a decade has provided me skills and insight to handle a multitude of issues. The experiences in your life are unique to you, which is why I strive to have a person-centered approach to empower you so you can reach your goal.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, job stress, grief, trauma related issues, chronic pain or addiction. I'm here to support you by developing a trusting relationship as you navigate the challenges of life. Being in the field for over a decade has provided me skills and insight to handle a multitude of issues. The experiences in your life are unique to you, which is why I strive to have a person-centered approach to empower you so you can reach your goal.
(651) 661-4494 View (651) 661-4494
Photo of Sheena O'Brien, Psychologist in White Bear Lake, MN
Sheena O'Brien
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression and would like to make changes in your life? Have you been faced with transitions such as relocating, career shift, or relationship struggles? Leaving a partner or community can be painful and isolating. By working together in a supportive environment we can find positive solutions to life's problems. I enjoy providing therapy for clients with anxiety and depression, as well as assisting adults with life transitions such as relationships, career, and relocating. I believe that honesty and a sense of humor create positive relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression and would like to make changes in your life? Have you been faced with transitions such as relocating, career shift, or relationship struggles? Leaving a partner or community can be painful and isolating. By working together in a supportive environment we can find positive solutions to life's problems. I enjoy providing therapy for clients with anxiety and depression, as well as assisting adults with life transitions such as relationships, career, and relocating. I believe that honesty and a sense of humor create positive relationships.
(612) 445-4912 View (612) 445-4912
Photo of Leanne Mairs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Leanne Mairs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
Together, we can address: anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and dissociation, loss and grief, and family conflict.
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
Together, we can address: anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and dissociation, loss and grief, and family conflict.
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
(651) 433-6415 View (651) 433-6415
Photo of Shannon Himango, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Shannon Himango
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
My areas of interest/training include couples & individual therapy with a focus on relational trauma & infidelity; premarital counseling, eldercare; sexuality; anxiety; depression; grief & loss; assertiveness, mindfulness, healthy self-care practices.
Taking the step to reach out for therapy, on our own or with a partner/family member, is a brave move. Relationships and life in general can offer great sources of joy as well as frustrations, and when talking with our family and friends, we may edit or limit what we say for fear of judgment, or burdening them. Reflecting and expressing ourselves freely with a neutral, non-judgmental helping professional is an excellent way to increase self awareness and insight about the challenges we encounter, even if we aren’t quite certain what to say.
My areas of interest/training include couples & individual therapy with a focus on relational trauma & infidelity; premarital counseling, eldercare; sexuality; anxiety; depression; grief & loss; assertiveness, mindfulness, healthy self-care practices.
Taking the step to reach out for therapy, on our own or with a partner/family member, is a brave move. Relationships and life in general can offer great sources of joy as well as frustrations, and when talking with our family and friends, we may edit or limit what we say for fear of judgment, or burdening them. Reflecting and expressing ourselves freely with a neutral, non-judgmental helping professional is an excellent way to increase self awareness and insight about the challenges we encounter, even if we aren’t quite certain what to say.
(651) 571-9588 View (651) 571-9588
Photo of Minnesota Online Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Minnesota Online Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Maybe a big life transition has occurred, or the end of a relationship, or just a long-standing issue with anxiety, depression, or some other mental health concern.
Get counseling without going out. We have specialized in remote online counseling for over 4 years. We have several therapists with immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. Our online services are covered by insurance. We also offer in-office counseling in our office in White Bear Lake, MN. We believe we can all use help at various times in our life to get through stressful times, break unhelpful patterns, and see if we can live our life with more happiness. Counseling can help to sort things out, resolve past and present issues, and help clear your mind for sound decision-making.
Maybe a big life transition has occurred, or the end of a relationship, or just a long-standing issue with anxiety, depression, or some other mental health concern.
Get counseling without going out. We have specialized in remote online counseling for over 4 years. We have several therapists with immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. Our online services are covered by insurance. We also offer in-office counseling in our office in White Bear Lake, MN. We believe we can all use help at various times in our life to get through stressful times, break unhelpful patterns, and see if we can live our life with more happiness. Counseling can help to sort things out, resolve past and present issues, and help clear your mind for sound decision-making.
(651) 301-8599 View (651) 301-8599
Photo of Tara Burk, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Tara Burk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I have been providing therapeutic services since 2014 and have experience helping people with a wide range of concerns including addiction, trauma, financial crisis, anxiety, depression, adolescent behavioral and emotional struggles, parenting concerns, family/relationship conflict, and marriage difficulties to form strong, healthy attachments.
It takes courage to ask for help! I love working collaboratively with people to find what has been missing and to bring healing to what has been hurting. I also love helping people learn and experience what safe and healthy relationships look like, so they can go on living with healthy relationships in their lives. My goal is to enlighten, empower and equip you to face and overcome your current challenges, to live out your values and to experience life-giving connections with others.
I have been providing therapeutic services since 2014 and have experience helping people with a wide range of concerns including addiction, trauma, financial crisis, anxiety, depression, adolescent behavioral and emotional struggles, parenting concerns, family/relationship conflict, and marriage difficulties to form strong, healthy attachments.
It takes courage to ask for help! I love working collaboratively with people to find what has been missing and to bring healing to what has been hurting. I also love helping people learn and experience what safe and healthy relationships look like, so they can go on living with healthy relationships in their lives. My goal is to enlighten, empower and equip you to face and overcome your current challenges, to live out your values and to experience life-giving connections with others.
(651) 493-8150 View (651) 493-8150
Photo of Eve Marie Kaldahl, Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Eve Marie Kaldahl
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I specialize in dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, family of origin work, substance abuse issues, co dependency, parent coaching and relationship issues.
I have had the privilege of being a therapist for the past 32 years. When working with clients my main goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can process their concerns. I work with clients from age 14 and up. My philosophy is to help clients identify their goals and partner with them to reach their goals. I do this by meeting clients where they are at, giving them space to process their concerns and teaching them coping strategies to help them deal with life's ups and downs in a more effective manner.
I specialize in dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, family of origin work, substance abuse issues, co dependency, parent coaching and relationship issues.
I have had the privilege of being a therapist for the past 32 years. When working with clients my main goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can process their concerns. I work with clients from age 14 and up. My philosophy is to help clients identify their goals and partner with them to reach their goals. I do this by meeting clients where they are at, giving them space to process their concerns and teaching them coping strategies to help them deal with life's ups and downs in a more effective manner.
(651) 371-5897 View (651) 371-5897
Photo of Norah Knabe, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Norah Knabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed psychotherapist & have been in practice since 2011. Presently, I provide telehealth services to individuals (age 10+) through my private practice: Rosewood Family Therapy, Inc. Expertise in working with those struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationships, family dynamics, divorce & stress management. (Currently accepting new individual clients with daytime availability - not taking on couples/families at this time).
Hello! I am a licensed psychotherapist & have been in practice since 2011. Presently, I provide telehealth services to individuals (age 10+) through my private practice: Rosewood Family Therapy, Inc. Expertise in working with those struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationships, family dynamics, divorce & stress management. (Currently accepting new individual clients with daytime availability - not taking on couples/families at this time).
(651) 401-7010 View (651) 401-7010
Photo of Kris Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in White Bear Lake, MN
Kris Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I believe that peace on earth starts with peace in the home. I'm able to help adults, couples, and families find this peace by using healthy communication techniques, recognize their emotions and heal from past pain. This helps clients foster deeper connections in their relationships and within themselves. I work with couples needing support with communication, conflict resolution and gaining trust. I help parents establish loving limits with their children to help them learn while also maintaining connection. I can help clients cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, and postpartum.
I believe that peace on earth starts with peace in the home. I'm able to help adults, couples, and families find this peace by using healthy communication techniques, recognize their emotions and heal from past pain. This helps clients foster deeper connections in their relationships and within themselves. I work with couples needing support with communication, conflict resolution and gaining trust. I help parents establish loving limits with their children to help them learn while also maintaining connection. I can help clients cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, and postpartum.
(651) 967-7892 View (651) 967-7892
Photo of William Lamers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in White Bear Lake, MN
William Lamers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I work with clients as young as age 10. My specialty is working with couples facing challenges in their relationship, as well as helping children and teens process their parents' divorce. Outside of my specialty, I also work with teen or adult clients experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship distress, family problems, adolescent issues, life transitions, and general stress management.
I work with clients as young as age 10. My specialty is working with couples facing challenges in their relationship, as well as helping children and teens process their parents' divorce. Outside of my specialty, I also work with teen or adult clients experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship distress, family problems, adolescent issues, life transitions, and general stress management.
(651) 661-3804 View (651) 661-3804
Photo of Diane L Hovey, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Diane L Hovey
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CPT, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Waitlist for new clients
I work as your guide, assisting you in navigating and transforming tragedy, chaos, and challenges into possibility. When life-altering challenges impede your ability to navigate the uncertainties of life, I assist you in addressing the barriers that block your healing. I work with those who have experienced betrayal trauma, those who are struggling with problematic sexual behaviors, and those who are trying to make sense out of the senseless as you reshape and restructure your life. We all need help in moving past anxiety, depression, loss, and making mistakes, that impede our ability to live a healthy life of meaning and purpose.
I work as your guide, assisting you in navigating and transforming tragedy, chaos, and challenges into possibility. When life-altering challenges impede your ability to navigate the uncertainties of life, I assist you in addressing the barriers that block your healing. I work with those who have experienced betrayal trauma, those who are struggling with problematic sexual behaviors, and those who are trying to make sense out of the senseless as you reshape and restructure your life. We all need help in moving past anxiety, depression, loss, and making mistakes, that impede our ability to live a healthy life of meaning and purpose.
(651) 321-2481 View (651) 321-2481
Photo of Sam Lorang, Pre-Licensed Professional in White Bear Lake, MN
Sam Lorang
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
My clients and I discuss depression, anxiety, giftedness, academic or vocational drift, dysfunctional relationships, self worth, skill building, ADHD, executive functioning, and Autism.
Whether you're navigating the challenges of life, improving relationships, or seeking support for neurodivergent concerns, together, we create a way for you, or your child, to discover your strengths and acquire new skills. I value open dialogue, emotional awareness, and a willingness to explore new ways. In my practice, I take an inclusive, non-judgmental approach to help my clients to assess their relationship to themselves and others, and teach them to provide themselves with options for change. We do this by sharing and learning from each other.
My clients and I discuss depression, anxiety, giftedness, academic or vocational drift, dysfunctional relationships, self worth, skill building, ADHD, executive functioning, and Autism.
Whether you're navigating the challenges of life, improving relationships, or seeking support for neurodivergent concerns, together, we create a way for you, or your child, to discover your strengths and acquire new skills. I value open dialogue, emotional awareness, and a willingness to explore new ways. In my practice, I take an inclusive, non-judgmental approach to help my clients to assess their relationship to themselves and others, and teach them to provide themselves with options for change. We do this by sharing and learning from each other.
(651) 615-3235 View (651) 615-3235
Photo of Charles Richmond, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Charles Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
My specialty areas include parenting, couples, adult individuals and adolescents. I help parents to see the mind behind their child's behaviors and empower them to parent through positive connection while maintaining structure. With couples I focus on fostering greater attunement and communication while also empowering each individual to bring the best part of themselves and advocate for what they desire in the relationship. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, low self-esteem, relationships concerns, life transitions, exploring spirituality and family of origin issues. I also see adolescents experiencing the struggles common to that stage of life.
My specialty areas include parenting, couples, adult individuals and adolescents. I help parents to see the mind behind their child's behaviors and empower them to parent through positive connection while maintaining structure. With couples I focus on fostering greater attunement and communication while also empowering each individual to bring the best part of themselves and advocate for what they desire in the relationship. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, low self-esteem, relationships concerns, life transitions, exploring spirituality and family of origin issues. I also see adolescents experiencing the struggles common to that stage of life.
(612) 260-5605 View (612) 260-5605
Photo of Claudia Petcu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Claudia Petcu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPsy, LGSW
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
(612) 712-5203 View (612) 712-5203

See more therapy options for White Bear Lake


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.