Photo of Christine K Duda, Counselor in Billings, MT
Christine K Duda
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I have experience working with those who are struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression as well as other life challenges.
I am the owner of Summit Healing Center and am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor. Do you feel like things are unbalanced, unmanageable and overwhelming? I believe thru all of life's challenges and obstacles we have a potential hidden within us that with support, empathy and compassion we can achieve and sustain. I am committed to supporting you find balance and serenity in your life, while learning and growing to make life long changes. I have 7+ years as a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10+ years in the helping profession.
I have experience working with those who are struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression as well as other life challenges.
I am the owner of Summit Healing Center and am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor. Do you feel like things are unbalanced, unmanageable and overwhelming? I believe thru all of life's challenges and obstacles we have a potential hidden within us that with support, empathy and compassion we can achieve and sustain. I am committed to supporting you find balance and serenity in your life, while learning and growing to make life long changes. I have 7+ years as a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10+ years in the helping profession.
(406) 306-1691 View (406) 306-1691
Photo of Laura Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Laura Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
Drawing from eight years of professional expertise, Laura creates a safe space for clients to talk about difficult experiences and uses evidence-based practices tailored to each individual. She specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicide prevention, and crisis intervention. Her passion for helping others stems from a lifelong desire to provide unbiased support and a comforting presence during tough times. Laura works with diverse populations across Montana, including Native American communities.
Drawing from eight years of professional expertise, Laura creates a safe space for clients to talk about difficult experiences and uses evidence-based practices tailored to each individual. She specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicide prevention, and crisis intervention. Her passion for helping others stems from a lifelong desire to provide unbiased support and a comforting presence during tough times. Laura works with diverse populations across Montana, including Native American communities.
(406) 380-3118 View (406) 380-3118
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 Lumen Cordis Counseling, LLC Catherine Day, LCPC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Lumen Cordis Counseling, LLC Catherine Day, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Are you experiencing difficulty in getting through the day due to anxiety, depression, or times of mental anguish? Have you experienced trauma that might be affecting your everyday life, relationships, and overall wellbeing? If you are identifying areas in your life that you would like to change/improve, I offer an unconditionally caring, safe, and trustworthy atmosphere, in which to promote your healing, growth, and opportunity to flourish.
Are you experiencing difficulty in getting through the day due to anxiety, depression, or times of mental anguish? Have you experienced trauma that might be affecting your everyday life, relationships, and overall wellbeing? If you are identifying areas in your life that you would like to change/improve, I offer an unconditionally caring, safe, and trustworthy atmosphere, in which to promote your healing, growth, and opportunity to flourish.
(406) 719-1503 View (406) 719-1503
Photo of Agami Karma Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Agami Karma Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MFT, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I work with those motivated to self understanding, growth and positive change. Life often throws us out of balance creating adverse symptoms, such as grief, depression, anxiety. Perhaps, you have a history of trauma that continues to effect you in life, work, or relationships. Or there is tension in your family system, marriage, relationships, and/or career. Whatever it is that "isn't working" there is a way to move through it... sometimes we just need a little guidance and extra support. I am that guidance and support, to lead you into a state a mind-body-soul balance.
I work with those motivated to self understanding, growth and positive change. Life often throws us out of balance creating adverse symptoms, such as grief, depression, anxiety. Perhaps, you have a history of trauma that continues to effect you in life, work, or relationships. Or there is tension in your family system, marriage, relationships, and/or career. Whatever it is that "isn't working" there is a way to move through it... sometimes we just need a little guidance and extra support. I am that guidance and support, to lead you into a state a mind-body-soul balance.
(406) 823-3716 View (406) 823-3716
Photo of Desire Meismer, Counselor in Billings, MT
Desire Meismer
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout our lives we may encounter painful, traumatic, or difficult scenarios that leave us feeling hopeless or stuck. I believe every person has a resiliency and strength to pull from to achieve an enjoyable and fulfilling life. Sometimes we need outside support to tap into our full potential and to overcome challenges. My background includes addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and more.
Throughout our lives we may encounter painful, traumatic, or difficult scenarios that leave us feeling hopeless or stuck. I believe every person has a resiliency and strength to pull from to achieve an enjoyable and fulfilling life. Sometimes we need outside support to tap into our full potential and to overcome challenges. My background includes addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and more.
(406) 637-6497 View (406) 637-6497
Photo of Lindsay Masquat Yellow Robe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Lindsay Masquat Yellow Robe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59106  (Online Only)
Sacred Pathways is an Indigenous Woman owned mental health practice. I offer a safe & compassionate space where you can explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. Drawing from both traditional wisdom and evidence-based practices, I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, intergenerational traumas, grief, life challenges, work stressors, and relationships issues.
Sacred Pathways is an Indigenous Woman owned mental health practice. I offer a safe & compassionate space where you can explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. Drawing from both traditional wisdom and evidence-based practices, I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, intergenerational traumas, grief, life challenges, work stressors, and relationships issues.
(406) 720-8655 View (406) 720-8655
Photo of Kim Waldmann, Counselor in Billings, MT
Kim Waldmann
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I work with my clients to successfully address a wide variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress, women's issues and PTSD.
Do you feel stuck or that there should be more to life? Do you feel your life lacks purpose and meaning? Are you struggling with a particular problem or mental health concern? I know it can feel intimidating to seek help, but counseling can be enjoyable and a positive first step to living your best life. I work with adults 18+ to identify situations, thoughts and beliefs that affect your relationships, school, career and wellbeing. We will work together, in a confidential, safe, nonjudgmental environment to find answers to the problem areas that are holding you back from achieving goals and the life you envision.
I work with my clients to successfully address a wide variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress, women's issues and PTSD.
Do you feel stuck or that there should be more to life? Do you feel your life lacks purpose and meaning? Are you struggling with a particular problem or mental health concern? I know it can feel intimidating to seek help, but counseling can be enjoyable and a positive first step to living your best life. I work with adults 18+ to identify situations, thoughts and beliefs that affect your relationships, school, career and wellbeing. We will work together, in a confidential, safe, nonjudgmental environment to find answers to the problem areas that are holding you back from achieving goals and the life you envision.
(406) 445-0205 View (406) 445-0205
Photo of Monica VonLangen (Sentinel Mental Health), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Monica VonLangen (Sentinel Mental Health)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP II, CSAM
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, anger, and emotional abuse recovery.
With compassion and cultural sensitivity, I have strived to help teens, adults, couples, and families to build resilience in the face of adversity since 2017. Trauma is real and looks different for each person. Healing takes time and support. What you have experienced does not determine who you are, but it can impact how you feel about yourself, the world, and others. Remember trauma and abuse are never your fault. You don't have to just survive anymore, you can thrive. Therapy is a collaborative relationship when done right. Let's work together to facilitate a healthier, happier, YOU!
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, anger, and emotional abuse recovery.
With compassion and cultural sensitivity, I have strived to help teens, adults, couples, and families to build resilience in the face of adversity since 2017. Trauma is real and looks different for each person. Healing takes time and support. What you have experienced does not determine who you are, but it can impact how you feel about yourself, the world, and others. Remember trauma and abuse are never your fault. You don't have to just survive anymore, you can thrive. Therapy is a collaborative relationship when done right. Let's work together to facilitate a healthier, happier, YOU!
(406) 420-8377 View (406) 420-8377
Photo of Rachel Robertson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Billings, MT
Rachel Robertson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with self-confidence or anxiety? Have you experienced grief or gone through trauma? Are you going through the adoption process or struggling with your identity as an adoptee? This can all greatly impact our personal and professional lives. It can make us want to retreat, isolate, and see ourselves in a negative light. Doing this, in turn, can lead into potential depression and not feeling like ourselves anymore. Yet, life has so much to offer, and you are here for a reason. You have a purpose and deserve to live a beautiful, happy and fulfilled life where you feel confident and capable of conquering those anxieties.
Do you struggle with self-confidence or anxiety? Have you experienced grief or gone through trauma? Are you going through the adoption process or struggling with your identity as an adoptee? This can all greatly impact our personal and professional lives. It can make us want to retreat, isolate, and see ourselves in a negative light. Doing this, in turn, can lead into potential depression and not feeling like ourselves anymore. Yet, life has so much to offer, and you are here for a reason. You have a purpose and deserve to live a beautiful, happy and fulfilled life where you feel confident and capable of conquering those anxieties.
(406) 642-0360 View (406) 642-0360
Photo of Jenna Christensen, Counselor in Billings, MT
Jenna Christensen
Counselor, PCLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Hello and welcome! I'm Jenna Christensen, a dedicated and compassionate counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and cultivate meaningful change. I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and LGBT+ issues. I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals facing a range of issues. My academic background includes a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Psychology from Montana State University.
Hello and welcome! I'm Jenna Christensen, a dedicated and compassionate counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and cultivate meaningful change. I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and LGBT+ issues. I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals facing a range of issues. My academic background includes a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Psychology from Montana State University.
(406) 729-4993 View (406) 729-4993
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 Sheila Murray, LCPC, LLC , Counselor in Billings, MT
Sheila Murray, LCPC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck with a life change, loss or trauma? Are you desiring change and fearing it at the same time? When we go through life changes, loss or trauma we can get turned around and have a hard time finding our ground again. Sometimes we lose touch gradually, over years of not being seen or heard. Not feeling safe enough to speak our truth or be who we really are. This can show up as depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck and unable to trust ourselves. Sometimes it’s just a feeling of emptiness on the inside, even though things look good on the outside.
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck with a life change, loss or trauma? Are you desiring change and fearing it at the same time? When we go through life changes, loss or trauma we can get turned around and have a hard time finding our ground again. Sometimes we lose touch gradually, over years of not being seen or heard. Not feeling safe enough to speak our truth or be who we really are. This can show up as depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck and unable to trust ourselves. Sometimes it’s just a feeling of emptiness on the inside, even though things look good on the outside.
(406) 426-5123 View (406) 426-5123
Photo of Claire Forsman, Counselor in Billings, MT
Claire Forsman
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I work with a variety of life issues, from trauma and grief to depression, anxiety and everyday stressors in between. My hope for our work together is to help my clients develop a deeper sense of knowing and trusting themselves. I strive to provide a space to explore how and where a person may feel stuck in order to move forward with a better sense of awareness and a greater level of compassion. I believe when self-awareness grows, we are able to show up differently in our relationships, desires, and lives. I also believe change is possible when we have a trusting therapist/client relationship to build off.
I work with a variety of life issues, from trauma and grief to depression, anxiety and everyday stressors in between. My hope for our work together is to help my clients develop a deeper sense of knowing and trusting themselves. I strive to provide a space to explore how and where a person may feel stuck in order to move forward with a better sense of awareness and a greater level of compassion. I believe when self-awareness grows, we are able to show up differently in our relationships, desires, and lives. I also believe change is possible when we have a trusting therapist/client relationship to build off.
(406) 730-7942 View (406) 730-7942
Photo of Mackenzie Fulleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Mackenzie Fulleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Accepting in person individual sessions! I work with individuals who are seeking assistance in healing recent or past trauma, anxiety/depression, life transitions, interpersonal/domestic violence, and women who are experiencing pregnancy or postpartum. I use evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), parts work, solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), and motivational interviewing through an attachment based lens.
Accepting in person individual sessions! I work with individuals who are seeking assistance in healing recent or past trauma, anxiety/depression, life transitions, interpersonal/domestic violence, and women who are experiencing pregnancy or postpartum. I use evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), parts work, solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), and motivational interviewing through an attachment based lens.
(406) 505-7617 View (406) 505-7617
Photo of Hanna Knudsen, Counselor in Billings, MT
Hanna Knudsen
Counselor, PCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59105  (Online Only)
I can see clients throughout Montana via telehealth. I work with adolescent, adult, geriatric, multicultural, and LGBTQIA+ clients. My specialties include working with ADHD, ASD and sensory sensitivities, Depressive Disorders (MDD, Dysthymia, PMDD), Dissociative Disorders (DPD, DPR, DID), complex-interpersonal relationships (family members or partners with: NPD, substance-use, BPD, imprisonment, etc.), Social Anxiety, PTSD (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, sexual), Suicidality, Somatic Disorders, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sex Positivity, Gender Dysphoria, and Burnout.
I can see clients throughout Montana via telehealth. I work with adolescent, adult, geriatric, multicultural, and LGBTQIA+ clients. My specialties include working with ADHD, ASD and sensory sensitivities, Depressive Disorders (MDD, Dysthymia, PMDD), Dissociative Disorders (DPD, DPR, DID), complex-interpersonal relationships (family members or partners with: NPD, substance-use, BPD, imprisonment, etc.), Social Anxiety, PTSD (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, sexual), Suicidality, Somatic Disorders, Insomnia, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sex Positivity, Gender Dysphoria, and Burnout.
(406) 747-2234 View (406) 747-2234
Photo of Destiny Devine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Destiny Devine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59105
I offer support to individuals and their loved ones navigating trauma, racial identity, grief, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and disordered eating.
Hello and welcome! I’m Destiny a clinical therapist who's devoted to supporting individuals and their loved ones struggling with major life transitions, and life changing events. My focus as a therapist is to provide care and treatment for vulnerable and underserved populations in Montana. I truly love working with everyone and appreciate what makes us all unique. We all deserve to have a non-judgmental, safe space to feel supported and welcomed. I utilize a client and family centered approach to empower my clients to achieve individual success and self-compassion where care in our small community may be lacking.
I offer support to individuals and their loved ones navigating trauma, racial identity, grief, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and disordered eating.
Hello and welcome! I’m Destiny a clinical therapist who's devoted to supporting individuals and their loved ones struggling with major life transitions, and life changing events. My focus as a therapist is to provide care and treatment for vulnerable and underserved populations in Montana. I truly love working with everyone and appreciate what makes us all unique. We all deserve to have a non-judgmental, safe space to feel supported and welcomed. I utilize a client and family centered approach to empower my clients to achieve individual success and self-compassion where care in our small community may be lacking.
(406) 740-8676 View (406) 740-8676
Photo of Diament Wellness Marriage & Counseling, PC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Billings, MT
Diament Wellness Marriage & Counseling, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59106  (Online Only)
Congratulations for reaching out! You are not alone. Your step of seeking therapy and recovery - it sure isn't easy. I truly hope that I can relieve some of that... I see each person as a unique individual. A person with life experiences- needing to relate, confide in and be validated. I treat each person with authenticity and unconditional positive regard. I focus on what is in front of me and not "what could be." My approach is a holistic one; I look at the whole person, including any underlying medical concerns, in order to help you identify your basic core self. Remember, you are brave for making the first step - reach out!
Congratulations for reaching out! You are not alone. Your step of seeking therapy and recovery - it sure isn't easy. I truly hope that I can relieve some of that... I see each person as a unique individual. A person with life experiences- needing to relate, confide in and be validated. I treat each person with authenticity and unconditional positive regard. I focus on what is in front of me and not "what could be." My approach is a holistic one; I look at the whole person, including any underlying medical concerns, in order to help you identify your basic core self. Remember, you are brave for making the first step - reach out!
(818) 975-3730 View (818) 975-3730
Photo of Cynthia Vlahos Palmer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Cynthia Vlahos Palmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSC , LCPC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(406) 272-7935 View (406) 272-7935
Photo of Montana Mindset, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Montana Mindset
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59105
People are my passion. After working in the mental health field for the last 15 years, I have learned that everyone has a unique story and circumstances. I love working with clients to embrace this and work through roadblocks that stand in the way of a fulfilled life. Through evidence based practices you have the ability to change and be the best version of you. Needless to say, life is hard.
People are my passion. After working in the mental health field for the last 15 years, I have learned that everyone has a unique story and circumstances. I love working with clients to embrace this and work through roadblocks that stand in the way of a fulfilled life. Through evidence based practices you have the ability to change and be the best version of you. Needless to say, life is hard.
(406) 831-0631 View (406) 831-0631

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.