Photo of Beulah Coley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Beulah Coley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hiddenite, NC 28636
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults, adolescents and children ages 5+. My areas of clinical focus include working with folks who are living with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder, family dysfunction, and codependency. I also enjoy working with parents and provide a culturally-attuned environment for folks within the LGBTQIA+ community.
I work with adults, adolescents and children ages 5+. My areas of clinical focus include working with folks who are living with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder, family dysfunction, and codependency. I also enjoy working with parents and provide a culturally-attuned environment for folks within the LGBTQIA+ community.
(828) 471-9902 View (828) 471-9902

Online Therapists

Photo of Ashley Brown, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Alexander County, NC
Ashley Brown
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
My specialities include Trauma Informed Counseling, Sexual Abuse, Military Counseling, LGBTQIA concerns, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, as well as, every day stressors.
I can provide a safe space where clients can explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors freely. Regardless of cultural background or personal lifestyles, all are welcomed to explore themselves, their needs, their goals, and any concerns they may have, through a relaxed and nonjudgmental therapeutic experience. I aim to encourage, highlight, and empower those who seek clarity through difficult situations or when life appears most murky. Navigating through difficult thoughts or experiences alone may appear daunting at times. You are not alone and therapy can be that outlet to which you will be able to create your own path to healing.
My specialities include Trauma Informed Counseling, Sexual Abuse, Military Counseling, LGBTQIA concerns, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, as well as, every day stressors.
I can provide a safe space where clients can explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors freely. Regardless of cultural background or personal lifestyles, all are welcomed to explore themselves, their needs, their goals, and any concerns they may have, through a relaxed and nonjudgmental therapeutic experience. I aim to encourage, highlight, and empower those who seek clarity through difficult situations or when life appears most murky. Navigating through difficult thoughts or experiences alone may appear daunting at times. You are not alone and therapy can be that outlet to which you will be able to create your own path to healing.
(980) 414-8803 View (980) 414-8803
Photo of Lucy Dunning, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Helping clients reach and maintain an improved quality of life, I work with clients on processing anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma experienced from managing a chronic illness.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Helping clients reach and maintain an improved quality of life, I work with clients on processing anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma experienced from managing a chronic illness.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
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Photo of Adam Levine - Resiliency Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Adam Levine - Resiliency Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036  (Online Only)
I have over 15 years experience providing best practice therapy interventions to children, adolescents, adults and their families. My focus is working with children and young adults who have experienced traumatic incidents, adjustment and attachment concerns, grief and loss and depression and anxiety. I equally appreciate my work with adults who have endured their own past traumas and life stressors and are seeking new clarity and balance in their lives. I also have extensive background with parents whose children have recently disclosed trauma and/or abuse and who are need of their own support systems.
I have over 15 years experience providing best practice therapy interventions to children, adolescents, adults and their families. My focus is working with children and young adults who have experienced traumatic incidents, adjustment and attachment concerns, grief and loss and depression and anxiety. I equally appreciate my work with adults who have endured their own past traumas and life stressors and are seeking new clarity and balance in their lives. I also have extensive background with parents whose children have recently disclosed trauma and/or abuse and who are need of their own support systems.
(980) 400-3792 View (980) 400-3792
Photo of Amy Cooper, Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Amy Cooper
Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
I work with adolescents, teens and adults that are having challenges with alcohol/substance abuse, anxiety, depression, separation/divorce, trauma and abuse, loss and grief, issues of sexuality, parenting, ADHD and focus challenges.
Hello and welcome! I understand how difficult it is to ask for help. My goal is to create a safe space for you to be you- to just be human. Whether you are dealing with the shame of substance use issues, sexual identity concerns, or childhood traumas, I offer space for you to be vulnerable. What I do not provide is judgment. I offer acceptance. I believe we all heal through connection. I am here to support you through your individual journey- whatever that looks like. We can lay the burdens down together. You are not alone.
I work with adolescents, teens and adults that are having challenges with alcohol/substance abuse, anxiety, depression, separation/divorce, trauma and abuse, loss and grief, issues of sexuality, parenting, ADHD and focus challenges.
Hello and welcome! I understand how difficult it is to ask for help. My goal is to create a safe space for you to be you- to just be human. Whether you are dealing with the shame of substance use issues, sexual identity concerns, or childhood traumas, I offer space for you to be vulnerable. What I do not provide is judgment. I offer acceptance. I believe we all heal through connection. I am here to support you through your individual journey- whatever that looks like. We can lay the burdens down together. You are not alone.
(704) 703-4047 View (704) 703-4047
Photo of Carlea Atkinson, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Alexander County, NC
Carlea Atkinson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207
Ever since I started working as a teenager, I have always worked with adolescents/teens and young adults (ages 12-30), they are my passion! At that age, life is a whirlwind of uncertainty, never ending lessons and loads of questions. Throughout my time in this career, I have helped my clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, sexuality, trauma, broken relationships, and life stressors. In short, whether you’ve experienced trauma or are having a hard time figuring out your relationships, your family dynamics or adjusting to adulthood, I am honored to support you through it.
Ever since I started working as a teenager, I have always worked with adolescents/teens and young adults (ages 12-30), they are my passion! At that age, life is a whirlwind of uncertainty, never ending lessons and loads of questions. Throughout my time in this career, I have helped my clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, sexuality, trauma, broken relationships, and life stressors. In short, whether you’ve experienced trauma or are having a hard time figuring out your relationships, your family dynamics or adjusting to adulthood, I am honored to support you through it.
(704) 480-3537 View (704) 480-3537
Photo of Tara C Martin, Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Tara C Martin
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, ages five and up. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have five years' experience working with ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and challenges with life transitions.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, ages five and up. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I have five years' experience working with ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and challenges with life transitions.
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Photo of Tricia Jackson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Tricia Jackson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Counseling is such a bold and brave step in the process of healing. I believe that healthy development and growth are not reached by the elimination of pain and challenges, but rather in developing healthy methods of understanding, coping with, and responding to pain. This can be a challenging, but a beautiful process, and I am honored to walk with my clients through it. Most of my training is in working with women and I enjoy working alongside them as they navigate working through trauma, work/life balance, anxiety, boundary issues, guilt/shame, identity issues, life transitions, self-esteem, depression, and/or loss.
Counseling is such a bold and brave step in the process of healing. I believe that healthy development and growth are not reached by the elimination of pain and challenges, but rather in developing healthy methods of understanding, coping with, and responding to pain. This can be a challenging, but a beautiful process, and I am honored to walk with my clients through it. Most of my training is in working with women and I enjoy working alongside them as they navigate working through trauma, work/life balance, anxiety, boundary issues, guilt/shame, identity issues, life transitions, self-esteem, depression, and/or loss.
(336) 892-9715 View (336) 892-9715
Photo of Karen Matson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Karen Matson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 23 years. I enjoy working with a wide range of individual concerns, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, abuse/trauma, addictions, and phase of life issues. I find that many of us have expectations that life will be better, that we will finally be happy, when we reach a certain milestone, or when we do what makes others happy, or if we work hard.
I have worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 23 years. I enjoy working with a wide range of individual concerns, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, abuse/trauma, addictions, and phase of life issues. I find that many of us have expectations that life will be better, that we will finally be happy, when we reach a certain milestone, or when we do what makes others happy, or if we work hard.
(704) 601-7247 View (704) 601-7247
Photo of Emani J Mills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Emani J Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28208  (Online Only)
Emani Mills is a licensed clinical social worker providing counseling to adolescents and adults. She completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Georgia and have been licensed since 2018. Her services are available to those residing in North Carolina via tele-health providing treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, and adjustment disorders. She enjoys what she does and is honored to be a part of someone's healing journey.
Emani Mills is a licensed clinical social worker providing counseling to adolescents and adults. She completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Georgia and have been licensed since 2018. Her services are available to those residing in North Carolina via tele-health providing treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, and adjustment disorders. She enjoys what she does and is honored to be a part of someone's healing journey.
(704) 850-6079 View (704) 850-6079
Photo of Rebecca Campbell, Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Rebecca Campbell
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Candler, NC 28715
Adolescence to early adulthood can be a confusing and overwhelming time in a person’s development, but it’s a time with potential for powerful growth and healing. Your teen or young adult may be navigating sexual and gender preferences, peer relationships, and school responsibilities. They may be suffering from discrimination or bullying. Often these experiences can erupt in an array of struggles: anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, anger, isolation, body image issues, or lack of focus. You want your kid to feel comfortable in their own skin; to learn ways to accept themselves and to thrive on whatever path they choose.
Adolescence to early adulthood can be a confusing and overwhelming time in a person’s development, but it’s a time with potential for powerful growth and healing. Your teen or young adult may be navigating sexual and gender preferences, peer relationships, and school responsibilities. They may be suffering from discrimination or bullying. Often these experiences can erupt in an array of struggles: anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, anger, isolation, body image issues, or lack of focus. You want your kid to feel comfortable in their own skin; to learn ways to accept themselves and to thrive on whatever path they choose.
(828) 656-5612 View (828) 656-5612
Photo of Bettie McKemie Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Bettie McKemie Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
I love working with people who are taking steps to better understand themselves and how they relate to the world around them. I work with children, teens, adults and families who are looking to realize their full potential and confront challenges in doing so. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, academic struggles, work-life balance and relationships. I love working with children and parents to support empathy building in family relationships.
I love working with people who are taking steps to better understand themselves and how they relate to the world around them. I work with children, teens, adults and families who are looking to realize their full potential and confront challenges in doing so. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, academic struggles, work-life balance and relationships. I love working with children and parents to support empathy building in family relationships.
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Photo of Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMF, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Walnut Cove, NC 27052
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
(336) 663-0423 View (336) 663-0423
Photo of Sherry Lyerly-Tarner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Sherry Lyerly-Tarner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, RT, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Therapy is a healing and transformative process, and it takes courage to seek help with the issues often brought to counseling. I believe healing involves looking at the whole person, and it is important to me to provide a safe environment for my clients where they can explore their challenges without judgment, and share with honesty and openness. I work with children, adolescents, teens & adults who want to become their best selves! Many are seeking greater self-awareness & guidance on their path, & many struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, body image, relationships, family stress & life transitions.
Therapy is a healing and transformative process, and it takes courage to seek help with the issues often brought to counseling. I believe healing involves looking at the whole person, and it is important to me to provide a safe environment for my clients where they can explore their challenges without judgment, and share with honesty and openness. I work with children, adolescents, teens & adults who want to become their best selves! Many are seeking greater self-awareness & guidance on their path, & many struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, body image, relationships, family stress & life transitions.
(980) 404-2348 View (980) 404-2348
Photo of Chaundra B Fletcher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Chaundra B Fletcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC (SC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My experience includes working with clients with issues involving addiction, trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, and depression.
Life sometimes has unexpected events that you may need help navigating. I am honored to walk with you along your journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (NC), Licensed Professional Counselor (SC), a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA), and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I graduated from Montreat College, in Charlotte with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 10 years experience working with adolescents, adults, & abused/neglected children. I was also the liaison for Union County Department of Social Services and the FBI in regards to Human Trafficking.
My experience includes working with clients with issues involving addiction, trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, and depression.
Life sometimes has unexpected events that you may need help navigating. I am honored to walk with you along your journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (NC), Licensed Professional Counselor (SC), a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA), and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I graduated from Montreat College, in Charlotte with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 10 years experience working with adolescents, adults, & abused/neglected children. I was also the liaison for Union County Department of Social Services and the FBI in regards to Human Trafficking.
(980) 226-2939 View (980) 226-2939
Photo of Elena Mansour, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Alexander County, NC
Elena Mansour
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MPA, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with those who struggle with depression and anxiety.
Hi, I'm a therapist who has a mindfulness and yoga teaching background. I'm here to help you bring kindness, awareness and compassion to your difficult thoughts and emotions so that you can process safely and realign towards the life of your dreams. Taking the initiative to reach out for therapy brings you one step closer towards healing. We can only heal what we can feel and being witnessed can make all the difference. Judith Herman, a pioneer of psychological healing writes, "Recovery can take place only within the context of relationships; it cannot occur in isolation.”
I specialize in working with those who struggle with depression and anxiety.
Hi, I'm a therapist who has a mindfulness and yoga teaching background. I'm here to help you bring kindness, awareness and compassion to your difficult thoughts and emotions so that you can process safely and realign towards the life of your dreams. Taking the initiative to reach out for therapy brings you one step closer towards healing. We can only heal what we can feel and being witnessed can make all the difference. Judith Herman, a pioneer of psychological healing writes, "Recovery can take place only within the context of relationships; it cannot occur in isolation.”
(828) 392-5418 View (828) 392-5418
Photo of Dimayquoaye Smith, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Dimayquoaye Smith
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ThD, LCAS , SAP
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28151
Hello, My name is Dr. Dimayquoaye Smith, and I have a history of working with men and women in a homeless shelter setting. In addition, I have experince working with adolescents in Addiction, Clients in the criminal justice system, and adults and children who struggle with psychiatric problems such as unresolved grief, trauma, depression, and anxiety complicated by issues of Addiction.
Hello, My name is Dr. Dimayquoaye Smith, and I have a history of working with men and women in a homeless shelter setting. In addition, I have experince working with adolescents in Addiction, Clients in the criminal justice system, and adults and children who struggle with psychiatric problems such as unresolved grief, trauma, depression, and anxiety complicated by issues of Addiction.
(704) 313-4317 View (704) 313-4317
Photo of Ase Healing Center, LLC (Delores Place), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Ase Healing Center, LLC (Delores Place)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
Newton, NC 28658  (Online Only)
You’ve spent countless days, months, and years striving to get it right. To be seen and live beyond the constant and heavy feelings of hopelessness, fear, anger, and inadequacy. To move beyond shame and guilt. You may regret that you are here today—at this point in your life. But we want to assure you that reaching out for help today is a brave step. One that will lead to a new path in learning skills to help you live abundantly. And we want to assist you on this path. In our work together, we will assist you in learning the emotional skills necessary to relieve difficult emotions and conditions such as panic, anxiety, depression.
You’ve spent countless days, months, and years striving to get it right. To be seen and live beyond the constant and heavy feelings of hopelessness, fear, anger, and inadequacy. To move beyond shame and guilt. You may regret that you are here today—at this point in your life. But we want to assure you that reaching out for help today is a brave step. One that will lead to a new path in learning skills to help you live abundantly. And we want to assist you on this path. In our work together, we will assist you in learning the emotional skills necessary to relieve difficult emotions and conditions such as panic, anxiety, depression.
(828) 537-4649 View (828) 537-4649
Photo of Windee Knox-Heitkamp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexander County, NC
Windee Knox-Heitkamp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
I have been working with children, adolescents, and families for over twenty seven years. I have an eclectic approach, and my style is described as client-centered and informal. My goal is to connect with each individual with respect and care. I especially enjoy relating to young women struggling with a variety of life challenges. I offer a discount to students, who are actively enrolled in a university, college, community college, etc. Common issues are depression, anxiety, family concerns, relationship difficulties, and trauma. Please contact me directly to hear more about the student rate.
I have been working with children, adolescents, and families for over twenty seven years. I have an eclectic approach, and my style is described as client-centered and informal. My goal is to connect with each individual with respect and care. I especially enjoy relating to young women struggling with a variety of life challenges. I offer a discount to students, who are actively enrolled in a university, college, community college, etc. Common issues are depression, anxiety, family concerns, relationship difficulties, and trauma. Please contact me directly to hear more about the student rate.
(336) 295-1752 View (336) 295-1752
Photo of Kristin Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexander County, NC
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421

See more therapy options for Alexander County

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.