Depression Therapists in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Leah Polk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Leah Polk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
Have you ever wanted to begin counseling, but didn’t feel like your problems were big enough? Or, have you ever ghosted a therapist because you didn’t feel helped? Me too. So, we go it alone - doing everything to change ourselves and our relationships. We continuously find ourselves stuck between what we want to do and what we “should” do. This dilemma often shows up as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. That’s why it’s my mission to provide approachable counseling that works.
Have you ever wanted to begin counseling, but didn’t feel like your problems were big enough? Or, have you ever ghosted a therapist because you didn’t feel helped? Me too. So, we go it alone - doing everything to change ourselves and our relationships. We continuously find ourselves stuck between what we want to do and what we “should” do. This dilemma often shows up as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. That’s why it’s my mission to provide approachable counseling that works.
(314) 794-5846 View (314) 794-5846
Photo of Alwyn S Whitehead Jr, Psychologist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Alwyn S Whitehead Jr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
My clients seek help with a specific difficulty. It may be depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, or their path in life. They want to feel happy and fulfilled but have been blocked by some difficulty. When they reach out to accept help they have made the first step in their journey of healing and happiness! We all deserve happiness and modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provides tools and processes to unblock the natural flow of healing available to us. Plus, anyone can become proficient in using them and applying them to many situations in their life.
My clients seek help with a specific difficulty. It may be depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, or their path in life. They want to feel happy and fulfilled but have been blocked by some difficulty. When they reach out to accept help they have made the first step in their journey of healing and happiness! We all deserve happiness and modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provides tools and processes to unblock the natural flow of healing available to us. Plus, anyone can become proficient in using them and applying them to many situations in their life.
(314) 897-4635 View (314) 897-4635
Photo of Cadence Hodes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Cadence Hodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
Therapy is a unique experience. It provides the opportunity to show up exactly as you are and explore your thoughts, feelings, identities, and relationships without fear of judgement; and to feel heard, accepted, and cared for in return. Life is increasingly hard, and my goal is to provide space to decompress, navigate hardships together, and celebrate your growth and successes. We might be a good fit if you are in a life transition, experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling with body image, have specific goals you'd like to work towards (or would like to identify some!), or simply believe you could be happier.
Therapy is a unique experience. It provides the opportunity to show up exactly as you are and explore your thoughts, feelings, identities, and relationships without fear of judgement; and to feel heard, accepted, and cared for in return. Life is increasingly hard, and my goal is to provide space to decompress, navigate hardships together, and celebrate your growth and successes. We might be a good fit if you are in a life transition, experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling with body image, have specific goals you'd like to work towards (or would like to identify some!), or simply believe you could be happier.
(314) 408-2772 View (314) 408-2772
Photo of Jordan Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Jordan Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, She/Her
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
Struggling with anxiety, irritability, depression, or navigating a life transition? Are your relationships feeling the impact? Living in a society that minimizes self-compassion, slowing down, and tuning into our bodies makes it hard to feel connected to ourselves and those around us. Add in traumatic life experiences and the world can easily become overwhelming leading our nervous systems to shift into states of survival. I work to create a non-judgmental space to explore these themes and strengthen the connection within yourself, your relationships, and the world around you.
Struggling with anxiety, irritability, depression, or navigating a life transition? Are your relationships feeling the impact? Living in a society that minimizes self-compassion, slowing down, and tuning into our bodies makes it hard to feel connected to ourselves and those around us. Add in traumatic life experiences and the world can easily become overwhelming leading our nervous systems to shift into states of survival. I work to create a non-judgmental space to explore these themes and strengthen the connection within yourself, your relationships, and the world around you.
(314) 789-3834 View (314) 789-3834
Photo of Ann Ramatowski Netzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Ann Ramatowski Netzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
Licensed in Missouri and Illinois, I work with individuals and couples, treating those who are experiencing relational issues, depression/anxiety, ADHD, mild autism and those who have experienced past trauma.
Hi! I'm Ann. I enjoy working with people who are open-minded, inquisitive and who like to challenge norms. Part of the therapeutic process is about confronting the parts of ourselves that we tend to hide and feel a bit less comfortable with. I'd like to help you get to know your whole self and walk beside you as you question some of the beliefs you've held, which may be in conflict with who you are now. Like you, I've been there and asked myself. "What do I want?" "Who am I?" and "What feels motivating and pleasurable in my life?" It's tough to feel ‘stuck’ and also, it's the start of something brand new.
Licensed in Missouri and Illinois, I work with individuals and couples, treating those who are experiencing relational issues, depression/anxiety, ADHD, mild autism and those who have experienced past trauma.
Hi! I'm Ann. I enjoy working with people who are open-minded, inquisitive and who like to challenge norms. Part of the therapeutic process is about confronting the parts of ourselves that we tend to hide and feel a bit less comfortable with. I'd like to help you get to know your whole self and walk beside you as you question some of the beliefs you've held, which may be in conflict with who you are now. Like you, I've been there and asked myself. "What do I want?" "Who am I?" and "What feels motivating and pleasurable in my life?" It's tough to feel ‘stuck’ and also, it's the start of something brand new.
(314) 820-0456 View (314) 820-0456
Photo of Zachary Polk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Zachary Polk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
Do you catch yourself overthinking or being too critical? Do you often wonder if you have accomplished “enough”? We keep trying to change how we think and feel about ourselves, but nothing seems to work for very long. However, this '“trying” can often lead to familiar reactions such as anxiety, depression, and relationship stress. So how does it get better?
Do you catch yourself overthinking or being too critical? Do you often wonder if you have accomplished “enough”? We keep trying to change how we think and feel about ourselves, but nothing seems to work for very long. However, this '“trying” can often lead to familiar reactions such as anxiety, depression, and relationship stress. So how does it get better?
(314) 926-9610 View (314) 926-9610
Photo of Jayree Stone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Jayree Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and appreciate working with clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationships, teen-parent conflicts, religious trauma/abuse and gender and sexual identity struggles. I have experience helping individuals, families, and couples work through life transitions and challenges including aging, relationships, financial hardships, social anxieties, spiritual identity, and divorce. We can't do it all on our own. I offer a safe space to help you manage and cope with your daily struggles.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and appreciate working with clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationships, teen-parent conflicts, religious trauma/abuse and gender and sexual identity struggles. I have experience helping individuals, families, and couples work through life transitions and challenges including aging, relationships, financial hardships, social anxieties, spiritual identity, and divorce. We can't do it all on our own. I offer a safe space to help you manage and cope with your daily struggles.
(314) 325-1420 View (314) 325-1420
Photo of Paige Lynch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Paige Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
I work with those who struggle with trauma, relationship problems, and not taking care of oneself first. I have experience working with those who have sexual abuse or assault histories, trauma within problematic relationships, and compassion fatigue. Trauma comes in all sizes and from a variety of experiences, so do not discount what you have lived through. No matter the circumstances that bring you into therapy, we will spend time healing your wounds to help you grow into the person you wish to be, with a stronger sense of safety.
I work with those who struggle with trauma, relationship problems, and not taking care of oneself first. I have experience working with those who have sexual abuse or assault histories, trauma within problematic relationships, and compassion fatigue. Trauma comes in all sizes and from a variety of experiences, so do not discount what you have lived through. No matter the circumstances that bring you into therapy, we will spend time healing your wounds to help you grow into the person you wish to be, with a stronger sense of safety.
(314) 328-7597 View (314) 328-7597
Photo of Beth Koritz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Beth Koritz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP, TFT-Dx
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
I am currently accepting new clients & supervisees! Welcome to a space designed exclusively for remarkable women navigating the intricate world of ADHD. Are you weary of the overwhelm of trying to fit into a world designed for a different rhythm? Are you tired of the constant mental gymnastics, attempting to wrangle your thoughts and emotions? Or perhaps you're seeking clarity and empowerment, eager to harness the incredible potential your ADHD brain holds. Whatever your story, know that you're not alone. As a member of the ADHD community, you're navigating a beautifully unique path.
I am currently accepting new clients & supervisees! Welcome to a space designed exclusively for remarkable women navigating the intricate world of ADHD. Are you weary of the overwhelm of trying to fit into a world designed for a different rhythm? Are you tired of the constant mental gymnastics, attempting to wrangle your thoughts and emotions? Or perhaps you're seeking clarity and empowerment, eager to harness the incredible potential your ADHD brain holds. Whatever your story, know that you're not alone. As a member of the ADHD community, you're navigating a beautifully unique path.
(314) 720-8802 View (314) 720-8802
Photo of Brittanie Zwart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Brittanie Zwart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
February Intakes Open! - You know how to juggle a million things. You’re constantly on the go and doing everything for everyone. There’s no time to stop and not a second to spare. Sometimes you get in a flow and think, “I’ve got this!” But when you hit a bump in the road - your strong exterior comes crashing down. Suddenly everything is a disaster and nothing is working. You hate this. You don’t know why you feel this way - nothing is seriously “wrong” or “bad” in your life. You are wondering, “Why does it seem like everyone else has it figured out?” The harder that you work to get things together - the worse you feel.
February Intakes Open! - You know how to juggle a million things. You’re constantly on the go and doing everything for everyone. There’s no time to stop and not a second to spare. Sometimes you get in a flow and think, “I’ve got this!” But when you hit a bump in the road - your strong exterior comes crashing down. Suddenly everything is a disaster and nothing is working. You hate this. You don’t know why you feel this way - nothing is seriously “wrong” or “bad” in your life. You are wondering, “Why does it seem like everyone else has it figured out?” The harder that you work to get things together - the worse you feel.
(636) 400-1267 View (636) 400-1267
Photo of Kathryn Beskrowni, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Kathryn Beskrowni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
I provide therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Clients that tend to best fit my approach are seeking purpose and meaning, navigating feelings of uncertainty, alienation, or perpetual conflict, and are interested in examining ways outward dynamics reflect their inner selves. In other words, my work specializes in relational growth and development – in our communities, families, partnerships, and within ourselves.
I provide therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Clients that tend to best fit my approach are seeking purpose and meaning, navigating feelings of uncertainty, alienation, or perpetual conflict, and are interested in examining ways outward dynamics reflect their inner selves. In other words, my work specializes in relational growth and development – in our communities, families, partnerships, and within ourselves.
(314) 949-3992 View (314) 949-3992
Photo of LGBTQ+ Counseling St. Louis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
LGBTQ+ Counseling St. Louis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
While I provide individual and relationship counseling for all people, my special interest is to support marginalized populations. My primary expertise is providing counseling and supportive services for the LGBTQ+ constituency. As human beings, we all struggle with feelings of not being good enough, important enough, lovable or able to love. These feelings embed themselves very early in life producing defense mechanisms, although no longer needed, continue to operate below the surface, wreaking havoc on life, relationships and success. The battle is often a daily one; sometimes minute by minute. Don't suffer alone.
While I provide individual and relationship counseling for all people, my special interest is to support marginalized populations. My primary expertise is providing counseling and supportive services for the LGBTQ+ constituency. As human beings, we all struggle with feelings of not being good enough, important enough, lovable or able to love. These feelings embed themselves very early in life producing defense mechanisms, although no longer needed, continue to operate below the surface, wreaking havoc on life, relationships and success. The battle is often a daily one; sometimes minute by minute. Don't suffer alone.
(314) 270-1852 View (314) 270-1852
Photo of Elizabeth Rastberger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Elizabeth Rastberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
Waitlist for new clients
Elizabeth works adults dealing with identity, relationships, attachment, anxiety, ENM, and pre/post-abortion. She sees clients looking to work on relationships with themselves & others; those who want to feel more comfortable being themselves; and those who want to unlearn things that don’t serve them. Elizabeth is blunt, authentic, and kind. If you're looking for someone who's had plenty of life experiences and someone that can challenge you, she might be a good fit to help with your growth.
Elizabeth works adults dealing with identity, relationships, attachment, anxiety, ENM, and pre/post-abortion. She sees clients looking to work on relationships with themselves & others; those who want to feel more comfortable being themselves; and those who want to unlearn things that don’t serve them. Elizabeth is blunt, authentic, and kind. If you're looking for someone who's had plenty of life experiences and someone that can challenge you, she might be a good fit to help with your growth.
(314) 897-4781 View (314) 897-4781
Photo of Jerry C Clerc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Jerry C Clerc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
I offer a broad and deep set of trainings which in a very practical way help people grow: emotionally, behaviorally, spiritually. Potential clients will find evidence based methods, flexibility of approach, and a willingness to listen collaboratively. The goals that we develop together will feel sensible, clear, doable, and exciting. This is a very active therapy. From all my learnings I have developed my own form of psychotherapy
I offer a broad and deep set of trainings which in a very practical way help people grow: emotionally, behaviorally, spiritually. Potential clients will find evidence based methods, flexibility of approach, and a willingness to listen collaboratively. The goals that we develop together will feel sensible, clear, doable, and exciting. This is a very active therapy. From all my learnings I have developed my own form of psychotherapy
(314) 827-5993 View (314) 827-5993
Photo of Erin Maloney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Erin Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO 63139
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults, children, and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, identity, parenting, relationship challenges, divorce, grief, and life changes.
It is tough when you get stuck in a cycle of using unhealthy coping tools to make it through the day. It can feel challenging and scary to face what is there. You may feel lost and have forgotten or lost track of what you want from life. You may be looking for motivation, fulfillment, a way forward, and effective ways to get through life’s challenges. With all of the things you have to do, it can make it difficult to make you a priority. I would be honored to help you find your way forward. My overall approach is to help clients accept what they cannot control while working toward building a life that reflects their values.
I work with adults, children, and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, identity, parenting, relationship challenges, divorce, grief, and life changes.
It is tough when you get stuck in a cycle of using unhealthy coping tools to make it through the day. It can feel challenging and scary to face what is there. You may feel lost and have forgotten or lost track of what you want from life. You may be looking for motivation, fulfillment, a way forward, and effective ways to get through life’s challenges. With all of the things you have to do, it can make it difficult to make you a priority. I would be honored to help you find your way forward. My overall approach is to help clients accept what they cannot control while working toward building a life that reflects their values.
(314) 897-4070 View (314) 897-4070

Online Therapists

Photo of Monica Bryan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Monica Bryan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63102
The truth is life can be hard and things can be tough. We may feel down on our luck or even feel hopeless that things will never change. Depression, anxiety, sleepless nights, confusion and stress happen to the best of us and it is ok to reach out to a professional. It is normal to feel lost and uncertain sometimes on how to take a step forward towards living a more enjoyable life defined by your own terms. I believe reaching goals and true change can happen with the right mindset and tools, which I strive to help my clients develop in the most effective way!
The truth is life can be hard and things can be tough. We may feel down on our luck or even feel hopeless that things will never change. Depression, anxiety, sleepless nights, confusion and stress happen to the best of us and it is ok to reach out to a professional. It is normal to feel lost and uncertain sometimes on how to take a step forward towards living a more enjoyable life defined by your own terms. I believe reaching goals and true change can happen with the right mindset and tools, which I strive to help my clients develop in the most effective way!
(314) 804-1154 View (314) 804-1154
Photo of Madison Mertz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Madison Mertz
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I love to work with artists, teachers, and anyone who might be in a transitional stage along with having experience helping adults and adolescents with a wide variety of emotional and relationship issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma and post traumatic stress (PTSD), and gender/identity (including LGBTQ+).
The stories we tell ourselves about the world and about our own abilities can propel us forward or hold us back. Only by fully understanding our stories and the way we tell them can we understand where our narratives are serving us and where they are hindering us. This work is key in developing a new outlook and beginning to create the life you want, with the ultimate goal of living a life that is authentic to who you are and what you believe in. It is difficult work, but it is so worth it!
I love to work with artists, teachers, and anyone who might be in a transitional stage along with having experience helping adults and adolescents with a wide variety of emotional and relationship issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma and post traumatic stress (PTSD), and gender/identity (including LGBTQ+).
The stories we tell ourselves about the world and about our own abilities can propel us forward or hold us back. Only by fully understanding our stories and the way we tell them can we understand where our narratives are serving us and where they are hindering us. This work is key in developing a new outlook and beginning to create the life you want, with the ultimate goal of living a life that is authentic to who you are and what you believe in. It is difficult work, but it is so worth it!
(314) 947-3261 View (314) 947-3261
Photo of Olivia Carosello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Olivia Carosello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety, relationship problems, or depression? You may find yourself overwhelmed by the demands of life or thrown by a transition. Perhaps you simply want to gain insight into why you do the things you do. Therapy can help. I strive to create an open, nonjudgmental space for you to explore all aspects of yourself. I welcome all kinds of people, and have particular experience working with artists, academics, and those passionate about their work; people of all sexualities and genders; and people in nontraditional relationships. I aim to help you be the person you want to and can be.
Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety, relationship problems, or depression? You may find yourself overwhelmed by the demands of life or thrown by a transition. Perhaps you simply want to gain insight into why you do the things you do. Therapy can help. I strive to create an open, nonjudgmental space for you to explore all aspects of yourself. I welcome all kinds of people, and have particular experience working with artists, academics, and those passionate about their work; people of all sexualities and genders; and people in nontraditional relationships. I aim to help you be the person you want to and can be.
(314) 310-7076 View (314) 310-7076
Photo of Harry Skaletsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Harry Skaletsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I have been practicing in the field for six years, working with people dealing with depression, anxiety, serious illness and grief.
Life can present us with situations that cause pain, anxiety or suffering. These problems can stem from your past, or may have presented more recently. While this can be overwhelming, seeking out therapy is a courageous act in and of itself, and there is no correct point when beginning to address these issues. I know too well that coping with the challenges of life is not a straightforward path. That is why I offer my clients an open and trustworthy therapeutic environment where we can explore these issues, to not only gain better insight, but also learn how to cope more effectively.
I have been practicing in the field for six years, working with people dealing with depression, anxiety, serious illness and grief.
Life can present us with situations that cause pain, anxiety or suffering. These problems can stem from your past, or may have presented more recently. While this can be overwhelming, seeking out therapy is a courageous act in and of itself, and there is no correct point when beginning to address these issues. I know too well that coping with the challenges of life is not a straightforward path. That is why I offer my clients an open and trustworthy therapeutic environment where we can explore these issues, to not only gain better insight, but also learn how to cope more effectively.
(314) 887-5597 View (314) 887-5597
Photo of Daniel Bertilson in Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis, MO
Daniel Bertilson
MAC, PLPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
I am a therapist who desires to collaboratively work with you to cultivate hope and healing in your life. I very much enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds who are struggling through issues of depression, anxiety, spiritual, racial, and sexual trauma, sexual identity and shame/self-hatred.
I am a therapist who desires to collaboratively work with you to cultivate hope and healing in your life. I very much enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds who are struggling through issues of depression, anxiety, spiritual, racial, and sexual trauma, sexual identity and shame/self-hatred.
(314) 916-4372 View (314) 916-4372

See more therapy options for Lindenwood Park, Saint Louis


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.