Photo of Brighter Sky Counseling, Inc., Counselor in Billings, MT
Brighter Sky Counseling, Inc.
Counselor, MSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Our therapists specialize in issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, healing and transformation and life changes.
Everyone is deserving of a healing space to explore parts of yourself, learn to love yourself and step back into the world authentically. Brighter Sky Counseling is team of 9 therapists dedicated to helping individuals, families and couples. We will happily match you to the right therapist based on your goals and needs. Brighter Sky Counseling creates a safe place for everyone to begin the process of healing as you seek a path to brighter days and wellness.
Our therapists specialize in issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, healing and transformation and life changes.
Everyone is deserving of a healing space to explore parts of yourself, learn to love yourself and step back into the world authentically. Brighter Sky Counseling is team of 9 therapists dedicated to helping individuals, families and couples. We will happily match you to the right therapist based on your goals and needs. Brighter Sky Counseling creates a safe place for everyone to begin the process of healing as you seek a path to brighter days and wellness.
(406) 295-8473 View (406) 295-8473
Photo of Meghan Alane Salyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Meghan Alane Salyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I have experience in helping adolescents and adults struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, self-esteem, relationship, and family issues.
I believe the most important relationship we have in this life is with ourselves. Therapy can offer us a deeper understanding and connection with ourselves. Learning to love ourselves is a difficult process and is also very transformative and healing. I like to approach therapy with the ideas of helping a client develop a safe and trusting relationship with themself and to also approach themself with curiosity and compassion. I believe in the healing power of our minds and bodies and love to help clients learn how to cultivate this for themselves.
I have experience in helping adolescents and adults struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, self-esteem, relationship, and family issues.
I believe the most important relationship we have in this life is with ourselves. Therapy can offer us a deeper understanding and connection with ourselves. Learning to love ourselves is a difficult process and is also very transformative and healing. I like to approach therapy with the ideas of helping a client develop a safe and trusting relationship with themself and to also approach themself with curiosity and compassion. I believe in the healing power of our minds and bodies and love to help clients learn how to cultivate this for themselves.
(406) 319-3589 View (406) 319-3589
Photo of Kelly Krings-Lunder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kelly Krings-Lunder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to meeting YOUR needs! It is an incredibly brave thing to admit when we are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, are vulnerable, stuck, or just want someone to listen. When you work with Bridges, you are in a safe space where you will not be judged! Children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families are all welcome at Bridges. I offer therapies to suit every need, and I enjoy working with people who are ready for change. Bridges offers HIPAA compliant Telemedicine, therefore serving ALL MT communities. The physical office is located in Billings. Let’s get you from where you are to where you want to be!
I am committed to meeting YOUR needs! It is an incredibly brave thing to admit when we are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, are vulnerable, stuck, or just want someone to listen. When you work with Bridges, you are in a safe space where you will not be judged! Children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families are all welcome at Bridges. I offer therapies to suit every need, and I enjoy working with people who are ready for change. Bridges offers HIPAA compliant Telemedicine, therefore serving ALL MT communities. The physical office is located in Billings. Let’s get you from where you are to where you want to be!
(406) 953-0458 View (406) 953-0458
Photo of Lisa L Matovich-Brooke Anxiety Depression Ptsd, Counselor in Billings, MT
Lisa L Matovich-Brooke Anxiety Depression Ptsd
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Are you ready to heal from PTSD, trauma, grief, anxiety or depression? Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Life can throw us curveballs which can leave us sad, unmotivated, and heartbroken. Loved ones can leave us, relationships end, and life can sometimes be difficult. I believe that even though bad things happen, we can heal and have good lives. I help my clients to work toward finding solutions and skills so that they can find happiness after traumatic events. Life is too short to be sad, anxious, and depressed. You deserve to feel good about yourself!
Are you ready to heal from PTSD, trauma, grief, anxiety or depression? Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Life can throw us curveballs which can leave us sad, unmotivated, and heartbroken. Loved ones can leave us, relationships end, and life can sometimes be difficult. I believe that even though bad things happen, we can heal and have good lives. I help my clients to work toward finding solutions and skills so that they can find happiness after traumatic events. Life is too short to be sad, anxious, and depressed. You deserve to feel good about yourself!
(406) 642-7846 View (406) 642-7846
Photo of Teresa Kennedy Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Teresa Kennedy Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, Thanato
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Sometimes life gets heavy and hard. There IS HOPE for a better tomorrow. My clients want support for many issues, among them grief and bereavement, depression, anxiety, and assistance with serious health diagnosis, and adjusting or readjusting to new life circumstances. Sometimes just support making a hard decision. I am here to listen!
Sometimes life gets heavy and hard. There IS HOPE for a better tomorrow. My clients want support for many issues, among them grief and bereavement, depression, anxiety, and assistance with serious health diagnosis, and adjusting or readjusting to new life circumstances. Sometimes just support making a hard decision. I am here to listen!
(406) 510-2920 View (406) 510-2920
Photo of Jennifer Richard, Counselor in Billings, MT
Jennifer Richard
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Jennifer Richard, LCPC As a therapist, my job is to provide a safe and open environment in which to share. I work with individuals and have experience assisting couples. I work primarily with persons needing help exploring anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, trauma, first responder, and military. I also see clients who have personality disorders and associated symptoms. I try to set a relaxed environment surrounded by understanding and non-judgement. Clients have commented about the ease in which I communicate and bring about a sense of comfort in discussion.
Jennifer Richard, LCPC As a therapist, my job is to provide a safe and open environment in which to share. I work with individuals and have experience assisting couples. I work primarily with persons needing help exploring anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, trauma, first responder, and military. I also see clients who have personality disorders and associated symptoms. I try to set a relaxed environment surrounded by understanding and non-judgement. Clients have commented about the ease in which I communicate and bring about a sense of comfort in discussion.
(406) 740-8986 View (406) 740-8986
Photo of Gabbi Niemi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Gabbi Niemi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for 6 years with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of mental illness including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more.
I am passionate about helping clients heal and move towards wellness, by providing a safe and caring environment to explore and process difficult experiences and emotions. I believe each client is the expert on his or her own experience and I work with the client to tailor treatment to the individual needs.
I have worked in the mental health field for 6 years with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of mental illness including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more.
I am passionate about helping clients heal and move towards wellness, by providing a safe and caring environment to explore and process difficult experiences and emotions. I believe each client is the expert on his or her own experience and I work with the client to tailor treatment to the individual needs.
(406) 308-5830 View (406) 308-5830
Photo of 406 Counseling Services, Counselor in Billings, MT
406 Counseling Services
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I have extensive experience working with life stressors including, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, grief, attachment, oppositional defiant, behavioral concerns, ADHD, anger management, self-esteem and conflict resolution.
I recognize how difficult it can be to allow someone into your world and seek help from an outside person. I appreciate the value in relationships and center my therapy practice around building strong relationships. My goal as your therapist is to work alongside you developing new skills and refreshing skills you forgot you had. Life is a journey filled with happiness and sorrow. Sometimes the difficulty experienced in life can lead a person feeling sad, lonely, agitated, hopeless and unsure of the future. Seeking counseling is just another journey in life. I am here to help you on that journey.
I have extensive experience working with life stressors including, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, grief, attachment, oppositional defiant, behavioral concerns, ADHD, anger management, self-esteem and conflict resolution.
I recognize how difficult it can be to allow someone into your world and seek help from an outside person. I appreciate the value in relationships and center my therapy practice around building strong relationships. My goal as your therapist is to work alongside you developing new skills and refreshing skills you forgot you had. Life is a journey filled with happiness and sorrow. Sometimes the difficulty experienced in life can lead a person feeling sad, lonely, agitated, hopeless and unsure of the future. Seeking counseling is just another journey in life. I am here to help you on that journey.
(406) 926-0048 View (406) 926-0048
Photo of Sunny Mavor Online Counseling, Counselor in Billings, MT
Sunny Mavor Online Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
(406) 306-1415 View (406) 306-1415
Photo of Kim L Waples, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kim L Waples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I’ve lived and worked in rural areas most all my life, therefore I’ve needed to be ready to meet with people who have all types of concerns : depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, grief, life changes, alcohol/drug issues or the death of a beloved pet.
Life can get hard, unpredictable and messy sometimes, especially over the last couple of years! Feeling lost and confused, is part of having a human experience. It's ok not to have all the answers right now, and it's even ok if you've stumbled and fallen. Nobody does this "life thing" perfectly. Maybe, you are considering changing some part of yourself or your life. Great for you!!! It takes a lot of courage to get to that place. Asking for guidance or help is a huge step and it's healthy!
I’ve lived and worked in rural areas most all my life, therefore I’ve needed to be ready to meet with people who have all types of concerns : depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, grief, life changes, alcohol/drug issues or the death of a beloved pet.
Life can get hard, unpredictable and messy sometimes, especially over the last couple of years! Feeling lost and confused, is part of having a human experience. It's ok not to have all the answers right now, and it's even ok if you've stumbled and fallen. Nobody does this "life thing" perfectly. Maybe, you are considering changing some part of yourself or your life. Great for you!!! It takes a lot of courage to get to that place. Asking for guidance or help is a huge step and it's healthy!
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Photo of Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I have gained much experience and competence throughout the years working with individuals, couples and families in the treatment of addictions, trauma, abuse, anxiety and depression.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
I have gained much experience and competence throughout the years working with individuals, couples and families in the treatment of addictions, trauma, abuse, anxiety and depression.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
(406) 578-5042 View (406) 578-5042
Photo of Morgan Sternhagen, Counselor in Billings, MT
Morgan Sternhagen
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I have experience with working with those who are struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, along with other emotional and life challenges.
My passion is providing support and empowering others in their journey to the person they want to be. I believe in having a "good fit" and relationship with my clients, and them with me. I am dedicated to your success by focusing our relationship on compassion, empathy, respect and honesty as we work together in the healing process. I also believe change happens with practice and consistency. I also understand that what works for one, may not work for others, so I will work with you to find what strategies and supports work best for you.
I have experience with working with those who are struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, along with other emotional and life challenges.
My passion is providing support and empowering others in their journey to the person they want to be. I believe in having a "good fit" and relationship with my clients, and them with me. I am dedicated to your success by focusing our relationship on compassion, empathy, respect and honesty as we work together in the healing process. I also believe change happens with practice and consistency. I also understand that what works for one, may not work for others, so I will work with you to find what strategies and supports work best for you.
(406) 623-5319 View (406) 623-5319
Photo of Naz Sanks Counseling, PLLC , Counselor in Billings, MT
Naz Sanks Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS,LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
My experience includes treating issues of anxiety, panic attacks, depression, life transitions, family issues.
Hi, I am Naz! I am a Therapist who absolutely loves meeting and helping people! My belief is that everyone is going through life doing their best, and if I can make this road more comfortable and add some clarity and contentment then I would have done my job. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to get and feel better, who is open to be challenged and grow! I am an Optimist and truly believe that people are essentially good but also realize life happens and sometimes things get tough, that is where I can help lessen the load and get a new perspective. I do see adults, teens and older kids 5+. Thank you!
My experience includes treating issues of anxiety, panic attacks, depression, life transitions, family issues.
Hi, I am Naz! I am a Therapist who absolutely loves meeting and helping people! My belief is that everyone is going through life doing their best, and if I can make this road more comfortable and add some clarity and contentment then I would have done my job. My ideal client is someone who is motivated to get and feel better, who is open to be challenged and grow! I am an Optimist and truly believe that people are essentially good but also realize life happens and sometimes things get tough, that is where I can help lessen the load and get a new perspective. I do see adults, teens and older kids 5+. Thank you!
(406) 319-3151 View (406) 319-3151
Photo of Wellness Possebilities, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Wellness Possebilities
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I often work with clients experiencing adjustment reactions, PTSD, anxiety, depression and addictions (gambling, pornography, drug/alcohol or relationships).
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
I often work with clients experiencing adjustment reactions, PTSD, anxiety, depression and addictions (gambling, pornography, drug/alcohol or relationships).
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
(406) 578-0646 View (406) 578-0646
Photo of Rainya Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Rainya Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, children, and families. I became a therapist to help people navigate through difficult experiences in life and to help make positive choices in order to live a healthier, happier life. I am commitment to helping my clients find solutions to real life issues. My areas of specialty include parenting education, anxiety and depression, oppositional and defiant behaviors, trauma, anger, and family therapy.
I work with individuals, children, and families. I became a therapist to help people navigate through difficult experiences in life and to help make positive choices in order to live a healthier, happier life. I am commitment to helping my clients find solutions to real life issues. My areas of specialty include parenting education, anxiety and depression, oppositional and defiant behaviors, trauma, anger, and family therapy.
(406) 948-0063 View (406) 948-0063
Photo of Growth Mindset, LLC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Growth Mindset, LLC
Counselor, MS, PCLC, ACLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My name is Jesse Alcorn. I work with people who struggle with acceptance, difficulties, change, or lingering emotionally impacting stressors. If you have anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, ambivalence, relationship issues, etc. I believe I may be of assistance! If you want to come to therapy to have a better, healthier outlook on life in general or your unique situation, Growth Mindset may be able to assist in that transformative process. I believe life is about growth and continuing to challenge ourselves to strive toward optimization. I also do Christian counseling specific if you or your loved one is interested.
My name is Jesse Alcorn. I work with people who struggle with acceptance, difficulties, change, or lingering emotionally impacting stressors. If you have anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, ambivalence, relationship issues, etc. I believe I may be of assistance! If you want to come to therapy to have a better, healthier outlook on life in general or your unique situation, Growth Mindset may be able to assist in that transformative process. I believe life is about growth and continuing to challenge ourselves to strive toward optimization. I also do Christian counseling specific if you or your loved one is interested.
(406) 747-0862 View (406) 747-0862
Photo of Deb D Marquard, Counselor in Billings, MT
Deb D Marquard
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Whether you're looking for help with parenting challenges, relationship issues, or ways to manage anxiety, depression, or everyday life stressors, choosing a therapist is an important decision. I have found that when clients feel secure and understood in the therapeutic relationship, exploration and resolution of difficult life experiences becomes possible. I'm an experienced licensed professional counselor who works with individuals of all ages (3-80+). I tailor my approach to the individual and utilize a variety of treatment approaches.
Whether you're looking for help with parenting challenges, relationship issues, or ways to manage anxiety, depression, or everyday life stressors, choosing a therapist is an important decision. I have found that when clients feel secure and understood in the therapeutic relationship, exploration and resolution of difficult life experiences becomes possible. I'm an experienced licensed professional counselor who works with individuals of all ages (3-80+). I tailor my approach to the individual and utilize a variety of treatment approaches.
(406) 204-0585 View (406) 204-0585
Photo of Adam Chiappone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Adam Chiappone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
As a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in helping adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, relationship issues, codependency, and difficult life transitions.
We are living through a time of great anxiety and uncertainty. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can explore patterns that may be preventing you from moving forward in your relationships, work, and life. I utilize a variety of techniques to help free you from the self-defeating behavior patterns that keep you stuck. The goal of our working together is to reduce your distress, give you tools to solve problems in a healthy way, and heal the wounds of the past so that you can live a happier, more fulfilling life.
As a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in helping adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Trauma/PTSD, grief/ loss, relationship issues, codependency, and difficult life transitions.
We are living through a time of great anxiety and uncertainty. I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space where you can explore patterns that may be preventing you from moving forward in your relationships, work, and life. I utilize a variety of techniques to help free you from the self-defeating behavior patterns that keep you stuck. The goal of our working together is to reduce your distress, give you tools to solve problems in a healthy way, and heal the wounds of the past so that you can live a happier, more fulfilling life.
(406) 606-4062 View (406) 606-4062
Photo of Carrie L Ovard, Counselor in Billings, MT
Carrie L Ovard
Counselor, MS, LAMFT, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization include adoption, anger management, antisocial personality, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, divorce, domestic abuse, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, emotional disturbance, family conflict, grief, life transitions, marital and premarital, oppositional defiance, parenting, peer relationships, relationship issues, school issues, sex therapy, suicidal ideation and trauma and PTSD. I focus on a wide range of clients including adults, teenagers, preteenagers, and children. I use several therapeutic modalities/approaches.
My areas of specialization include adoption, anger management, antisocial personality, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, divorce, domestic abuse, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, emotional disturbance, family conflict, grief, life transitions, marital and premarital, oppositional defiance, parenting, peer relationships, relationship issues, school issues, sex therapy, suicidal ideation and trauma and PTSD. I focus on a wide range of clients including adults, teenagers, preteenagers, and children. I use several therapeutic modalities/approaches.
(435) 233-9025 View (435) 233-9025
Photo of Candace Anderson, Counselor in Billings, MT
Candace Anderson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals with severe traumas, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD and mood disorders.
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
I specialize in treating individuals with severe traumas, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD and mood disorders.
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
(406) 272-0203 View (406) 272-0203

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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.