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 Dr. Michael J Kurtz, Psychologist in Billings, MT
Dr. Michael J Kurtz
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
My focus is above all to offer therapy which empowers individuals. This starts with genuinely respecting your autonomy and right to choose your own path. Whether you're getting by "good enough" in your life but still find yourself discontent and aren't sure why, or you're dealing with mental illness (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma) which is beginning to unravel your relationships and your life. You may seek short-term symptom relief, and this will always be respected, on the other hand, you may choose to dive deeper to clarify and work on the root of a reoccurring problem. Either way, I'm here to help.
My focus is above all to offer therapy which empowers individuals. This starts with genuinely respecting your autonomy and right to choose your own path. Whether you're getting by "good enough" in your life but still find yourself discontent and aren't sure why, or you're dealing with mental illness (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma) which is beginning to unravel your relationships and your life. You may seek short-term symptom relief, and this will always be respected, on the other hand, you may choose to dive deeper to clarify and work on the root of a reoccurring problem. Either way, I'm here to help.
(406) 626-8704 View (406) 626-8704
Photo of Tawny Stark, Counselor in Billings, MT
Tawny Stark
Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
A special interest of mine is perinatal mood disorders which are more commonly discussed as post-partum depression or anxiety although there are more mood disorders during and after pregnancy that women, and men, experience.
I believe that people are capable of making changes in their life and that is why I do what I do. I approach counseling from a cognitive behavioral perspective which means that I help clients examine their thought processes and how those processes drive their behavior. I also believe that we all have the resources in ourselves to find solutions to our problems. Mindfulness has become a well-known practice in helping to manage anxiety, depression, stress, and chronic pain. I have seen the benefits of this work in myself and with my clients and will incorporate this approach in my work with you.
A special interest of mine is perinatal mood disorders which are more commonly discussed as post-partum depression or anxiety although there are more mood disorders during and after pregnancy that women, and men, experience.
I believe that people are capable of making changes in their life and that is why I do what I do. I approach counseling from a cognitive behavioral perspective which means that I help clients examine their thought processes and how those processes drive their behavior. I also believe that we all have the resources in ourselves to find solutions to our problems. Mindfulness has become a well-known practice in helping to manage anxiety, depression, stress, and chronic pain. I have seen the benefits of this work in myself and with my clients and will incorporate this approach in my work with you.
(406) 365-1213 View (406) 365-1213
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 Ruth Story, Counselor in Billings, MT
Ruth Story
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Therapy is a journey to embrace our authentic selves, no matter our back story. Problems that we struggle with do not form our whole identity and are usually adaptations that were originally protective strategies. My approach combines many different modalities that help with panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as problems caused by addiction. I have limited in-person availability, however, I have found that telehealth can be just as effective as in-person counseling in many cases. My telehealth clients also have first priority for booking in person appointments as they become available. Free consultation available.
Therapy is a journey to embrace our authentic selves, no matter our back story. Problems that we struggle with do not form our whole identity and are usually adaptations that were originally protective strategies. My approach combines many different modalities that help with panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as problems caused by addiction. I have limited in-person availability, however, I have found that telehealth can be just as effective as in-person counseling in many cases. My telehealth clients also have first priority for booking in person appointments as they become available. Free consultation available.
(406) 534-7708 View (406) 534-7708
Photo of Michael Steele, Counselor in Billings, MT
Michael Steele
Counselor, LCPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
My mission is to provide a safe and nurturing space for you to heal and grow from the challenges that are showing up in your life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, issues in relationships, an eating disorder, or are just hoping to make improvements in your life, my work is to be an ally in the service of helping to alleviate symptoms, uncover the root causes of suffering, and align with you in the process of restoring balance, peace, and joy to your life.
My mission is to provide a safe and nurturing space for you to heal and grow from the challenges that are showing up in your life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, issues in relationships, an eating disorder, or are just hoping to make improvements in your life, my work is to be an ally in the service of helping to alleviate symptoms, uncover the root causes of suffering, and align with you in the process of restoring balance, peace, and joy to your life.
(406) 313-2556 View (406) 313-2556
Photo of Valerie Ramsay, Counselor in Billings, MT
Valerie Ramsay
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My approach focuses on reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety to restore healthy functioning in adults. I can help you to solve life problems associated with depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, career, and other phase of life issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My approach focuses on reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety to restore healthy functioning in adults. I can help you to solve life problems associated with depression, anxiety, grief, relationships, career, and other phase of life issues.
(406) 434-6600 View (406) 434-6600
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 nCenter Counseling & Neurofeedback, Counselor in Billings, MT
nCenter Counseling & Neurofeedback
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
We see children, adolescents, adults, parents and couples, with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, relationships, behavior, substance abuse and attention.
If talk therapy has not been 100% effective and you are seeking a holistic approach that includes healing of your mind, brain, and body, the nCenter might be what you are looking for. Our team of dedicated professionals works to integrate counseling, neurofeedback, and nutritional counseling along with qEEG brain maps and psychological assessments so that our clients can experience healing at all levels. We also have a PA who is able to provide medication management. The nCenter is committed to the highest standards of excellence, and we work to consider both your financial needs and your personal preferences about our services.
We see children, adolescents, adults, parents and couples, with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, relationships, behavior, substance abuse and attention.
If talk therapy has not been 100% effective and you are seeking a holistic approach that includes healing of your mind, brain, and body, the nCenter might be what you are looking for. Our team of dedicated professionals works to integrate counseling, neurofeedback, and nutritional counseling along with qEEG brain maps and psychological assessments so that our clients can experience healing at all levels. We also have a PA who is able to provide medication management. The nCenter is committed to the highest standards of excellence, and we work to consider both your financial needs and your personal preferences about our services.
(406) 219-1519 View (406) 219-1519
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!
View
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 Felicia Anderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Billings, MT
Felicia Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCLC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Embarking on a journey toward healing can be daunting, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist deeply committed to supporting adults navigating the challenges of depression, anxiety, and trauma, I offer a sanctuary where your feelings are validated and your experiences are met with compassion. Through a blend of personalized therapy techniques, we'll work together to uncover the roots of your struggles, foster resilience, and pave a path toward a future filled with hope and healing. Let's take the first step towards a life where you feel empowered, understood, and genuinely connected to your inner strength.
Embarking on a journey toward healing can be daunting, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist deeply committed to supporting adults navigating the challenges of depression, anxiety, and trauma, I offer a sanctuary where your feelings are validated and your experiences are met with compassion. Through a blend of personalized therapy techniques, we'll work together to uncover the roots of your struggles, foster resilience, and pave a path toward a future filled with hope and healing. Let's take the first step towards a life where you feel empowered, understood, and genuinely connected to your inner strength.
(406) 559-4801 View (406) 559-4801
Photo of Hannah Tippett, Counselor in Billings, MT
Hannah Tippett
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Past experiences and traumas (including those in childhood) can create an internal fragmentation of self - disconnecting us from our inherent wholeness and worth, and causing us to view and experience life as something to be survived rather than lived. This can manifest in emotional suppression, dissociation, feelings of worthlessness, relationship difficulties with self and others, lack of bodily autonomy and safety, repressed grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, etc. Healing through these experiences will require you to make the courageous journey back home to your heart and soul - back to the very essence of You.
Past experiences and traumas (including those in childhood) can create an internal fragmentation of self - disconnecting us from our inherent wholeness and worth, and causing us to view and experience life as something to be survived rather than lived. This can manifest in emotional suppression, dissociation, feelings of worthlessness, relationship difficulties with self and others, lack of bodily autonomy and safety, repressed grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, etc. Healing through these experiences will require you to make the courageous journey back home to your heart and soul - back to the very essence of You.
(406) 641-7632 View (406) 641-7632
Photo of Julia Chandler, Counselor in Billings, MT
Julia Chandler
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I work with adults (18+) who experience symptoms aligned with PTSD, C-PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety.
Starting the healing journey is such a courageous and loving gift to give yourself and I am so glad you are here. Creating safety is the most important part of this process, so I will meet you wherever you are on your journey. When our needs/emotions are not nurtured in childhood, we often learn to disconnect from our body, forcing us into a state of survival. If you ever feel disconnected, confused about your identity, unsafe in your body, struggle to focus, distrusting in relationships, confused about childhood experiences, loss of bodily autonomy, or unable to feel your full range of emotions, you are not alone and are safe here.
I work with adults (18+) who experience symptoms aligned with PTSD, C-PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety.
Starting the healing journey is such a courageous and loving gift to give yourself and I am so glad you are here. Creating safety is the most important part of this process, so I will meet you wherever you are on your journey. When our needs/emotions are not nurtured in childhood, we often learn to disconnect from our body, forcing us into a state of survival. If you ever feel disconnected, confused about your identity, unsafe in your body, struggle to focus, distrusting in relationships, confused about childhood experiences, loss of bodily autonomy, or unable to feel your full range of emotions, you are not alone and are safe here.
(406) 506-5984 View (406) 506-5984
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 Kyanne Wear (Sentinel Mental Health Inc), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kyanne Wear (Sentinel Mental Health Inc)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
We all experience some level of emotional distress throughout life. Sometimes the distress can be more than we can manage on our own. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families to navigate distress related to adverse life events, anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, anger, social skills, poor communication, and self-esteem.
We all experience some level of emotional distress throughout life. Sometimes the distress can be more than we can manage on our own. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families to navigate distress related to adverse life events, anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, anger, social skills, poor communication, and self-esteem.
(406) 313-3227 View (406) 313-3227
Photo of Taylor Kucensky, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Billings, MT
Taylor Kucensky
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I work in the states of Colorado (CO) and Montana (MT) passionately working with teens and adults with anxiety, OCD, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB's), and depression find ways to manage their symptoms and live the life they wish to pursue. Being a human is hard. I know you are nervous or self-conscious and I believe in providing you with autonomy and being present for your needs. You don't have to do it alone. I encourage you to advocate for yourself in and outside of our therapeutic relationship. This will help you maintain and continue to build improvement on your progress in our sessions.
I work in the states of Colorado (CO) and Montana (MT) passionately working with teens and adults with anxiety, OCD, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB's), and depression find ways to manage their symptoms and live the life they wish to pursue. Being a human is hard. I know you are nervous or self-conscious and I believe in providing you with autonomy and being present for your needs. You don't have to do it alone. I encourage you to advocate for yourself in and outside of our therapeutic relationship. This will help you maintain and continue to build improvement on your progress in our sessions.
(720) 513-4405 View (720) 513-4405
Photo of Serenitee Counseling ,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Serenitee Counseling ,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS,LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59105
Teenagers have their own set of struggles including peer pressure, self esteem issues, depression and anxiety. Their hormones are changing as are their bodies and can be a very tough time. Most children under age 6 can't put into words how they're feeling so play therapy is the best way to help them work through their feelings, which I utilize. It's also very important that parents have the skills to help their children through these tough times and I use Love and Logic parenting to help parents learn skills that help everyone in the family.
Teenagers have their own set of struggles including peer pressure, self esteem issues, depression and anxiety. Their hormones are changing as are their bodies and can be a very tough time. Most children under age 6 can't put into words how they're feeling so play therapy is the best way to help them work through their feelings, which I utilize. It's also very important that parents have the skills to help their children through these tough times and I use Love and Logic parenting to help parents learn skills that help everyone in the family.
(307) 240-8911 View (307) 240-8911
Photo of Ashlee N Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Ashlee N Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59105  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma & PTSD, sexual violence/abuse, family violence, intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, and work to help clients learn new coping skills to help them flourish.
Individuals who find a safe and knowledgeable therapist can find endless opportunities for personal growth. If you are looking for change, balance, growth, or healing, I could be a great fit as your counselor. In therapy we often redefine strength to include vulnerability in order to connect, heal, and move forward. By fostering this connection we hope to not only survive, but thrive in life through healthy attachment and connection. I provide trauma-informed services to help clients heal, grow, and break down barriers to change. Therapy is client-centered and provided at a safe and comfortable pace, with confidentiality and care.
I specialize in treating trauma & PTSD, sexual violence/abuse, family violence, intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, and work to help clients learn new coping skills to help them flourish.
Individuals who find a safe and knowledgeable therapist can find endless opportunities for personal growth. If you are looking for change, balance, growth, or healing, I could be a great fit as your counselor. In therapy we often redefine strength to include vulnerability in order to connect, heal, and move forward. By fostering this connection we hope to not only survive, but thrive in life through healthy attachment and connection. I provide trauma-informed services to help clients heal, grow, and break down barriers to change. Therapy is client-centered and provided at a safe and comfortable pace, with confidentiality and care.
(406) 413-9280 View (406) 413-9280
Photo of Nicole Walksalong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Nicole Walksalong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Accepting New Clients! Do you have concerns or worries you have difficulty resolving? Is your child struggling with their feelings and you're seeing new behaviors? Do you have past life events which seem to linger and cannot resolve on their own? I can help you with that! You'd benefit from working with an experienced therapist who has worked with many concerns including depression, anxiety, marital issues, blended/adoptive families and behavioural issues. I am trained in EMDR therapy and other models of treatment to help address your concerns. I am located in MT but provide tele-health therapy across MT and ND.
Accepting New Clients! Do you have concerns or worries you have difficulty resolving? Is your child struggling with their feelings and you're seeing new behaviors? Do you have past life events which seem to linger and cannot resolve on their own? I can help you with that! You'd benefit from working with an experienced therapist who has worked with many concerns including depression, anxiety, marital issues, blended/adoptive families and behavioural issues. I am trained in EMDR therapy and other models of treatment to help address your concerns. I am located in MT but provide tele-health therapy across MT and ND.
(406) 510-1382 View (406) 510-1382

Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Billings

See More Depression Therapists
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.