Depression Therapists in Ladue, MO

Photo of Jane N Rubin, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane N Rubin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
Areas of specialty include eating disorders, relationship and attachment issues, family dynamics, couples counseling, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe "the right" therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy. My approach focuses on creating a safe and empathetic space that is both collaborative and client-centered. I provide specialized therapy to individuals, couples, and families seeking to improve their emotional and mental health, relationships, and overall life experience. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help identify and change negative thought patterns, Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT) to help identify practical strategies to achieve goals, and Mindfulness Therapy.
Areas of specialty include eating disorders, relationship and attachment issues, family dynamics, couples counseling, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe "the right" therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy. My approach focuses on creating a safe and empathetic space that is both collaborative and client-centered. I provide specialized therapy to individuals, couples, and families seeking to improve their emotional and mental health, relationships, and overall life experience. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help identify and change negative thought patterns, Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT) to help identify practical strategies to achieve goals, and Mindfulness Therapy.
(314) 649-5656 View (314) 649-5656
Photo of Karen A Geren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen A Geren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
Karen utilizes non-judgmental and empowering approaches that focus on helping individuals access internal strengths to cope with life's difficulties. She offers unconditional support for improved wellbeing while actively challenging behaviors that may hinder progress. She has regularly facilitated growth and healing for adolescents and adults with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addictions, self-injury, self-esteem, and OCD. Interventions specific to clients' needs are regularly reviewed in order to provide tools to be used between therapy sessions.
Karen utilizes non-judgmental and empowering approaches that focus on helping individuals access internal strengths to cope with life's difficulties. She offers unconditional support for improved wellbeing while actively challenging behaviors that may hinder progress. She has regularly facilitated growth and healing for adolescents and adults with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addictions, self-injury, self-esteem, and OCD. Interventions specific to clients' needs are regularly reviewed in order to provide tools to be used between therapy sessions.
(314) 227-9628 View (314) 227-9628
Photo of Amy Ziegler, LPC, JD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Ziegler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, JD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
(314) 441-7837 View (314) 441-7837
Photo of Marisa Gelfand, LPC, MEd, Counselor
Marisa Gelfand
Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I partner with people who are struggling and want to become happier and healthier versions of themselves. More specifically, many of my patients are seeking help related to an eating disorder, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a lack of confidence.
I partner with people who are struggling and want to become happier and healthier versions of themselves. More specifically, many of my patients are seeking help related to an eating disorder, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a lack of confidence.
(314) 804-0460 View (314) 804-0460
Photo of Steven Mark Weiner, PhD, Psychologist
Steven Mark Weiner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
When people decide to come to therapy, they are struggling. They are stressed, suffering, and feeling stuck or lost. In most cases, they are feeling a loss of control over some important aspect of their lives. This loss of control results in symptoms such as depression, anxiety, stress, feelings of guilt or shame, family problems, relationship problems, or problems at work or school. It is my goal to help you regain control of your life!
When people decide to come to therapy, they are struggling. They are stressed, suffering, and feeling stuck or lost. In most cases, they are feeling a loss of control over some important aspect of their lives. This loss of control results in symptoms such as depression, anxiety, stress, feelings of guilt or shame, family problems, relationship problems, or problems at work or school. It is my goal to help you regain control of your life!
(314) 282-3630 View (314) 282-3630
Photo of Diane Venker, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Venker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
My practice includes clients dealing with depression, anxiety, abuse issues, relationship conflicts, grief and loss, and parent/child problems. I may utilize solution-focused therapy to provide initial relief of symptoms but I always encourage my clients to look for and explore the source of their difficulties so that life-long resolutions can be gained. I am trained in psychodynamic therapy but adjust treatment according to the client's needs.
My practice includes clients dealing with depression, anxiety, abuse issues, relationship conflicts, grief and loss, and parent/child problems. I may utilize solution-focused therapy to provide initial relief of symptoms but I always encourage my clients to look for and explore the source of their difficulties so that life-long resolutions can be gained. I am trained in psychodynamic therapy but adjust treatment according to the client's needs.
(314) 375-3994 View (314) 375-3994
Photo of Bayla M. Myer, PhD, Psychologist
Bayla M. Myer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I treat depression, anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorders, and alcoholism, in addition to a wide range of other issues, including various addictive behaviors which involve forensic concerns.
I have over thirty-five years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety disorders, marital discord, and family dysfunction. Changing oneself, therefore changing others around you, can lead to happier relationships. Understanding and insight can raise self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential, and trusting environment to explore one's feelings and consider options to produce different and improved results. Video and telehealth sessions have been added to accommodate the COVID-19 safety protocols.
I treat depression, anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorders, and alcoholism, in addition to a wide range of other issues, including various addictive behaviors which involve forensic concerns.
I have over thirty-five years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, anxiety disorders, marital discord, and family dysfunction. Changing oneself, therefore changing others around you, can lead to happier relationships. Understanding and insight can raise self-esteem. I provide a safe, confidential, and trusting environment to explore one's feelings and consider options to produce different and improved results. Video and telehealth sessions have been added to accommodate the COVID-19 safety protocols.
(314) 828-2354 View (314) 828-2354
Photo of Shannon Gartland, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Gartland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
My practice primarily focuses on treating adults with a multitude of clinical issues including depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and stress.
I am a licensed professional counselor who works from a client-centered approach. My goal is to provide a warm and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to share and process your experiences. I think of counseling as a place to gain greater insight and self-awareness around core beliefs. I will work with you to identify patterns of maladaptive coping and learn healthier ways to cope with life's challenges.
My practice primarily focuses on treating adults with a multitude of clinical issues including depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and stress.
I am a licensed professional counselor who works from a client-centered approach. My goal is to provide a warm and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to share and process your experiences. I think of counseling as a place to gain greater insight and self-awareness around core beliefs. I will work with you to identify patterns of maladaptive coping and learn healthier ways to cope with life's challenges.
(314) 549-1055 View (314) 549-1055
Photo of Michael J Rose - Wild Minds Consutling, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wild Minds Consutling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I bring extensive experience in anxiety, depression, family conflict, struggles w/ transitioning to adulthood, substance use, and more to support you.
Ideal clients seeking my guidance encompass a spectrum of individuals, couples, and families. Their issues span from personal struggles to relationship challenges. They seek understanding, connection, and strategies to navigate life's complexities. Their aspirations include finding harmony, fostering stronger bonds, and rediscovering purpose. By equipping them with tools and insights, I facilitate transformative journeys toward enhanced well-being and thriving relationships.
I bring extensive experience in anxiety, depression, family conflict, struggles w/ transitioning to adulthood, substance use, and more to support you.
Ideal clients seeking my guidance encompass a spectrum of individuals, couples, and families. Their issues span from personal struggles to relationship challenges. They seek understanding, connection, and strategies to navigate life's complexities. Their aspirations include finding harmony, fostering stronger bonds, and rediscovering purpose. By equipping them with tools and insights, I facilitate transformative journeys toward enhanced well-being and thriving relationships.
(314) 310-0547 View (314) 310-0547
Photo of Peggy Levinson, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy Levinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
She helps individuals with pre-marital and marital counseling, anxiety, depression, addictions, to develop a healthier response to their relationship, work, and family problems.
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
She helps individuals with pre-marital and marital counseling, anxiety, depression, addictions, to develop a healthier response to their relationship, work, and family problems.
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
(314) 714-5959 View (314) 714-5959
Photo of David Chernof, MSW, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Chernof
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I work with people who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, history of trauma, grief and loss, stress (home and workplace), parent/child issues, as well as a variety of other issues/concerns.
I believe in using a nonjudgmental and supportive approach to therapy - which will allow even the most anxious person to feel comfortable processing through their concerns. I will help guide you to answering your most powerful internal questions.
I work with people who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, history of trauma, grief and loss, stress (home and workplace), parent/child issues, as well as a variety of other issues/concerns.
I believe in using a nonjudgmental and supportive approach to therapy - which will allow even the most anxious person to feel comfortable processing through their concerns. I will help guide you to answering your most powerful internal questions.
(314) 593-2350 View (314) 593-2350
Photo of Shelley Wolfmeyer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley Wolfmeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I have experience working with individuals who need support with: Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma, Life Transitions, Grief, Career/Education challenges, Relationships and overall Coping Skills.
Life is messy. It’s full of change and transitions that can lead to feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. You may seem OK on the outside, but inside you're stressed, feeling stuck, and full of self-doubt. It's overwhelming to hold it together while feeling like you could fall apart at any moment. You don't have to figure this out on your own. With a combination of counseling & coaching techniques, I'll help you create strategies to overcome life's obstacles. Whatever season of life you're in, and whatever you need to work through, I'm here to offer support.
I have experience working with individuals who need support with: Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma, Life Transitions, Grief, Career/Education challenges, Relationships and overall Coping Skills.
Life is messy. It’s full of change and transitions that can lead to feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. You may seem OK on the outside, but inside you're stressed, feeling stuck, and full of self-doubt. It's overwhelming to hold it together while feeling like you could fall apart at any moment. You don't have to figure this out on your own. With a combination of counseling & coaching techniques, I'll help you create strategies to overcome life's obstacles. Whatever season of life you're in, and whatever you need to work through, I'm here to offer support.
(314) 266-5129 View (314) 266-5129
Photo of Angela E Grace, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela E Grace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124  (Online Only)
I help build confidence, manage stress, strengthen relationships, cope with depression, anxiety, parenting, and more.
Are you tired of being tired, sad, anxious, or isolated? Sick of people telling you to "snap out of it", "stop worrying", or "everyone gets depressed"? Is it hard to talk about your experience(s), even with family or friends? I can help. Having worked as a counselor for over 20 years, I know the power in feeling truly seen, in knowing that one person understands and cares. Together, we can find your strength and hope. I promise it's there, even if you can't remember what it feels like! Hope starts here.
I help build confidence, manage stress, strengthen relationships, cope with depression, anxiety, parenting, and more.
Are you tired of being tired, sad, anxious, or isolated? Sick of people telling you to "snap out of it", "stop worrying", or "everyone gets depressed"? Is it hard to talk about your experience(s), even with family or friends? I can help. Having worked as a counselor for over 20 years, I know the power in feeling truly seen, in knowing that one person understands and cares. Together, we can find your strength and hope. I promise it's there, even if you can't remember what it feels like! Hope starts here.
(314) 310-2336 View (314) 310-2336
Photo of Tim Rudder, LCSW, MGCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Rudder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MGCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
If you feel you have lost steam dealing with anxiety or depression, or if you are an athlete losing your drive due to the demands of your sport, I'd like to talk with you about how we can overcome your struggles. As a therapist, I can help you understand important experiences in your life while coping with difficulties, such as stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use disorders. As a Mental Game Coaching Professional, I can help you uncover mindsets that lead to a loss in confidence, composure, focus and enjoyment, so that you thrive and have fun again.
If you feel you have lost steam dealing with anxiety or depression, or if you are an athlete losing your drive due to the demands of your sport, I'd like to talk with you about how we can overcome your struggles. As a therapist, I can help you understand important experiences in your life while coping with difficulties, such as stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use disorders. As a Mental Game Coaching Professional, I can help you uncover mindsets that lead to a loss in confidence, composure, focus and enjoyment, so that you thrive and have fun again.
(573) 375-9863 View (573) 375-9863
Photo of Larry E Shapiro Ph.d., PhD, Psychologist
Larry E Shapiro Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124  (Online Only)
I specialize in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of anxiety and anxiety-related disorders, depression, trauma, combat trauma, PTSD, and life-cycle challenges like divorce and job/career change. Ideally, patients are interested in a direct, focused, and assertive approach to therapy and are willing to put in the time and effort between sessions to achieve their goals. I believe the goal in therapy must be to resolve the problem, not cope with it. If you've been frustrated by just talking and not doing, I may be able to help you make the changes you're wanting. I prefer to think of my work as psychological rehab rather than therapy.
I specialize in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of anxiety and anxiety-related disorders, depression, trauma, combat trauma, PTSD, and life-cycle challenges like divorce and job/career change. Ideally, patients are interested in a direct, focused, and assertive approach to therapy and are willing to put in the time and effort between sessions to achieve their goals. I believe the goal in therapy must be to resolve the problem, not cope with it. If you've been frustrated by just talking and not doing, I may be able to help you make the changes you're wanting. I prefer to think of my work as psychological rehab rather than therapy.
(314) 596-9130 View (314) 596-9130
Photo of Caroline Miller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with anxiety, depression, trauma, break ups and other everyday life stressors such as feeling stuck and overwhelmed in one or several areas in your life.
I am convinced the client/therapist relationship is one of the most healing aspects of therapy, so I take great care in making sure I treat my clients with honesty, respect, and compassion. In working together, we can create a deep connection and find balance in your life. Through this process we can shine a light on issues that may be causing difficulty and trauma for you.
My specialties include working with anxiety, depression, trauma, break ups and other everyday life stressors such as feeling stuck and overwhelmed in one or several areas in your life.
I am convinced the client/therapist relationship is one of the most healing aspects of therapy, so I take great care in making sure I treat my clients with honesty, respect, and compassion. In working together, we can create a deep connection and find balance in your life. Through this process we can shine a light on issues that may be causing difficulty and trauma for you.
(314) 808-5260 View (314) 808-5260
Photo of Kari Englund-Moreton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Englund-Moreton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I have experience working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other difficulties negatively impacting their lives.
I strive to provide a warm, safe environment in which you can feel safe to share and process current experiences and past experiences that may be causing difficulty to your system. I believe that positive experiences and relationships are central to trauma recovery and are important to general well-being. I believe that psychotherapy is a journey of self-discovery. I believe treatment is a creative process. We will work together to develop new insights that inform change. I currently do not have openings but I am happy to add you to my waitlist if that is your preference.
I have experience working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other difficulties negatively impacting their lives.
I strive to provide a warm, safe environment in which you can feel safe to share and process current experiences and past experiences that may be causing difficulty to your system. I believe that positive experiences and relationships are central to trauma recovery and are important to general well-being. I believe that psychotherapy is a journey of self-discovery. I believe treatment is a creative process. We will work together to develop new insights that inform change. I currently do not have openings but I am happy to add you to my waitlist if that is your preference.
(314) 300-9879 View (314) 300-9879
Photo of Mollie Appelbaum, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mollie Appelbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those who may need additional support navigating life's stressors.
Do you feel stuck, worried, or overwhelmed? Going through a major life transition? Just trying to tackle the day-to-day? Seeking out therapy is a significant step towards personal growth and healing . I believe in empowering you with the tools needed to navigate life's challenges while helping you better understand your feelings. We will work as a team, with your goals and needs at the forefront of our sessions. In addition, I am Perinatal Mental Health Certified. I am here to offer a safe space to those experiencing perinatal anxiety/ depression, pregnancy loss, labor & delivery challenges, and those in the throes of motherhood.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those who may need additional support navigating life's stressors.
Do you feel stuck, worried, or overwhelmed? Going through a major life transition? Just trying to tackle the day-to-day? Seeking out therapy is a significant step towards personal growth and healing . I believe in empowering you with the tools needed to navigate life's challenges while helping you better understand your feelings. We will work as a team, with your goals and needs at the forefront of our sessions. In addition, I am Perinatal Mental Health Certified. I am here to offer a safe space to those experiencing perinatal anxiety/ depression, pregnancy loss, labor & delivery challenges, and those in the throes of motherhood.
(314) 501-9259 View (314) 501-9259
Photo of Ari Freeman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ari Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
My work with children/adolescents includes: anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, and coping with family, peer, or life issues.
Accepting New Patients --- Taking the step to begin therapy is a brave choice. I understand that it frequently comes at a time of vulnerability when emotional pain or life problems are intense. As a therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to begin understanding life circumstances that are creating concerns for you. I approach therapy as a collaborative process and understand the importance of trust and empathy in the therapeutic relationship. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I work with people of all ages.
My work with children/adolescents includes: anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, and coping with family, peer, or life issues.
Accepting New Patients --- Taking the step to begin therapy is a brave choice. I understand that it frequently comes at a time of vulnerability when emotional pain or life problems are intense. As a therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to begin understanding life circumstances that are creating concerns for you. I approach therapy as a collaborative process and understand the importance of trust and empathy in the therapeutic relationship. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I work with people of all ages.
(314) 760-8765 View (314) 760-8765
Photo of Colleen Gosser, PLPC, NCC, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Colleen Gosser
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
Do you feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders? Are you so busy helping others that you don't end up prioritizing yourself? Are you juggling countless responsibilities while battling overwhelming emotions, like grief, depression, or anxiety? You're not alone in this struggle. Seeking help is an act of strength and self-care. Therapy can provide you with a sense of relief, versus burden.
Do you feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders? Are you so busy helping others that you don't end up prioritizing yourself? Are you juggling countless responsibilities while battling overwhelming emotions, like grief, depression, or anxiety? You're not alone in this struggle. Seeking help is an act of strength and self-care. Therapy can provide you with a sense of relief, versus burden.
(314) 947-4212 View (314) 947-4212
1
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.