Depression Therapists in Brunswick, NC

Photo of Deanna L Brown-Johnson, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Deanna L Brown-Johnson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Brunswick, NC 28424  (Online Only)
Reaching out to a counselor can be intimidating. I get it. We've all had times in life when we can't manage on our own. You might think, "how did I get here?" Whatever the situation, sometimes it feels overwhelming until you are able to talk about it. A counselor can help guide you through it. Counseling can help you feel healthier, happier, more empowered. Let's work together to help you find the peace and resiliency you've been wanting. Give us a call. I offer flexible hours, as well as offering phone and e-counseling.
Reaching out to a counselor can be intimidating. I get it. We've all had times in life when we can't manage on our own. You might think, "how did I get here?" Whatever the situation, sometimes it feels overwhelming until you are able to talk about it. A counselor can help guide you through it. Counseling can help you feel healthier, happier, more empowered. Let's work together to help you find the peace and resiliency you've been wanting. Give us a call. I offer flexible hours, as well as offering phone and e-counseling.
(910) 387-0937 View (910) 387-0937

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lavenda T Rogers, Lavenda, MSW, LCSWA, LLMSW, LCASA
Lavenda T Rogers
LCSW Associate, Lavenda, MSW, LCSWA, LLMSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whiteville, NC 28472  (Online Only)
My practice offers a safe space via telehealth for consumers to work on reducing episodes of anxiety, depression, and stress through a person-centered approach.
I am compassionate, person-centered, solution-focused, and dedicated to providing exceptional services that are treatment plan driven, as well as, consumer centered. My background consists of providing therapy to individuals, families, and children experiencing trauma and lifestyle adjustments. My credentials consist of LLMSW and LCSWA and certification in intimate partner violence.
My practice offers a safe space via telehealth for consumers to work on reducing episodes of anxiety, depression, and stress through a person-centered approach.
I am compassionate, person-centered, solution-focused, and dedicated to providing exceptional services that are treatment plan driven, as well as, consumer centered. My background consists of providing therapy to individuals, families, and children experiencing trauma and lifestyle adjustments. My credentials consist of LLMSW and LCSWA and certification in intimate partner violence.
(910) 226-4400 View (910) 226-4400
Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Bergman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Whiteville, NC 28472
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
(336) 530-1569 View (336) 530-1569
Photo of Eugenia Davis, LMHC
Eugenia Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chadbourn, NC 28431
My name is Eugenia V. Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Supervisor with over 24 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families suffering from Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Dual Diagnosis. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing. I believe it is easy for a person to become wrapped up in issues they cannot rationalize, and I think I can help their cause.
My name is Eugenia V. Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Supervisor with over 24 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families suffering from Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Dual Diagnosis. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing. I believe it is easy for a person to become wrapped up in issues they cannot rationalize, and I think I can help their cause.
(984) 217-5108 View (984) 217-5108
Photo of Tara Keel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Keel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chadbourn, NC 28431
Are you feeling stressed, defeated, or overwhelmed? Sometimes, we find ourselves feeling “stuck” and unable to move forward—or in any direction. Feeling as if you’re going nowhere, despite energy output, can be discouraging and defeating. Trust me, I understand. Everyone encounters challenging times in their lives. I think we can all agree that you never know what life will throw at you. The journey to healing can be lonely; but I am here to walk with you every step of the way. I can assure you that I will provide a safe place for you to express yourself, free from judgement.
Are you feeling stressed, defeated, or overwhelmed? Sometimes, we find ourselves feeling “stuck” and unable to move forward—or in any direction. Feeling as if you’re going nowhere, despite energy output, can be discouraging and defeating. Trust me, I understand. Everyone encounters challenging times in their lives. I think we can all agree that you never know what life will throw at you. The journey to healing can be lonely; but I am here to walk with you every step of the way. I can assure you that I will provide a safe place for you to express yourself, free from judgement.
(704) 810-2041 View (704) 810-2041
Photo of Ambrosia Spaulding - Spaulding Solutions Counseling Services PLLC, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Spaulding Solutions Counseling Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Whiteville, NC 28472  (Online Only)
Counseling is a way to shed light on your path. With compassion and understanding, we can walk this journey together. We will form a comfortable and collaborative therapeutic relationship that will promote growth and healing, and will strengthen your foundation of hope. My passion is to help you find the confidence and strength needed to walk in the light of who you were created to be. I have built my life on serving others. My practice epitomizes service by placing emphasis on trust, authenticity, compassion, wise and pragmatic counsel, professionalism and, of course, solutions.
Counseling is a way to shed light on your path. With compassion and understanding, we can walk this journey together. We will form a comfortable and collaborative therapeutic relationship that will promote growth and healing, and will strengthen your foundation of hope. My passion is to help you find the confidence and strength needed to walk in the light of who you were created to be. I have built my life on serving others. My practice epitomizes service by placing emphasis on trust, authenticity, compassion, wise and pragmatic counsel, professionalism and, of course, solutions.
(910) 714-9871 View (910) 714-9871
Photo of Anna-Marie Inman, MA, LCMHC
Anna-Marie Inman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whiteville, NC 28472
Growing up in a military town with a vast range in population has been an asset to my life. I bring a varied life experience to meet you where you are. It has been frequently reported by clients, I am easy to identify with and authentic in my approach. I have experience working with couples, and individuals ages 13 and up with many topics such as anxiety, stress, communication, and various marital issues. It is my desire to bring my love of people, love of place, life experience, education, and counseling experience to bring about the solution a client seeks.
Growing up in a military town with a vast range in population has been an asset to my life. I bring a varied life experience to meet you where you are. It has been frequently reported by clients, I am easy to identify with and authentic in my approach. I have experience working with couples, and individuals ages 13 and up with many topics such as anxiety, stress, communication, and various marital issues. It is my desire to bring my love of people, love of place, life experience, education, and counseling experience to bring about the solution a client seeks.
(910) 387-4357 View (910) 387-4357

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy Riecken, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Riecken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hampstead, NC 28443
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and school issues.
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! Reaching out for help can be a difficult decision whether it’s for yourself or a loved one. I commend you on your choice to work towards a healthier life. I provide an accepting and comfortable environment where you feel safe to discuss difficult topics. As a clinical social worker, I am client-focused and realize that you are the expert in your life. I want to support you in working through difficulties and enhancing your strengths as you prepare for a brighter future.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and school issues.
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! Reaching out for help can be a difficult decision whether it’s for yourself or a loved one. I commend you on your choice to work towards a healthier life. I provide an accepting and comfortable environment where you feel safe to discuss difficult topics. As a clinical social worker, I am client-focused and realize that you are the expert in your life. I want to support you in working through difficulties and enhancing your strengths as you prepare for a brighter future.
(910) 507-7352 View (910) 507-7352
Photo of Sarah Rabenold, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Rabenold
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kinston, NC 28501
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families on various issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, and behavioral issues.
Are you feeling defeated in your current phase of life? Are you a parent of a child who is experiencing depression, anxiety, or behavioral symptoms? Recognizing that you or a loved one needs help/guidance is the hardest and biggest step, but don't let the fear of the unknown keep you from accepting that help. I take pride in utilizing a person centered approach with my clients and building off their strengths and empowering them to be the best version of themselves. If we are a good match, together we can create the foundational skills necessary to navigate life's curveballs.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families on various issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, and behavioral issues.
Are you feeling defeated in your current phase of life? Are you a parent of a child who is experiencing depression, anxiety, or behavioral symptoms? Recognizing that you or a loved one needs help/guidance is the hardest and biggest step, but don't let the fear of the unknown keep you from accepting that help. I take pride in utilizing a person centered approach with my clients and building off their strengths and empowering them to be the best version of themselves. If we are a good match, together we can create the foundational skills necessary to navigate life's curveballs.
(704) 237-6968 View (704) 237-6968
Photo of Holly Young, LMHC
Holly Young
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28306  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
(919) 328-3873 View (919) 328-3873
Photo of Mark Christopher Harol, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Christopher Harol
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
My work is dedicated to helping people develop healthy relationships and productive, satisfying lives. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, or a difficult situation, a sense that somehow your life is not working out as you'd like. I have additional extensive training in Sex Therapy and sex addiction. I have been a corporate CEO, and am retired from the USAF with 22 years of service to this great country. It would be my privilege to work with you. Two office locations; Raleigh and Holly Springs. I offer Video Teletherapy and I'm a certified distance counselor.
My work is dedicated to helping people develop healthy relationships and productive, satisfying lives. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, anger issues, or a difficult situation, a sense that somehow your life is not working out as you'd like. I have additional extensive training in Sex Therapy and sex addiction. I have been a corporate CEO, and am retired from the USAF with 22 years of service to this great country. It would be my privilege to work with you. Two office locations; Raleigh and Holly Springs. I offer Video Teletherapy and I'm a certified distance counselor.
(919) 348-4222 View (919) 348-4222
Photo of Renee Landtroop, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Renee Landtroop
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients are able to express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. I place heavy importance on developing a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship to encourage clients to develop better coping skills that empower them to reach their therapeutic goals. I enjoy working with individuals ages 16 and up, in all stages of life. My areas of focus include grief and loss, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, attachment issues, stress management and coping techniques, social issues/peer pressure, adjustment and transition issues, body image and self-esteem issues.
I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients are able to express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. I place heavy importance on developing a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship to encourage clients to develop better coping skills that empower them to reach their therapeutic goals. I enjoy working with individuals ages 16 and up, in all stages of life. My areas of focus include grief and loss, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, attachment issues, stress management and coping techniques, social issues/peer pressure, adjustment and transition issues, body image and self-esteem issues.
(919) 635-4094 View (919) 635-4094
Photo of Scott Ball, MA, LCMHC
Scott Ball
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Are you looking for a warm, compassionate therapist who will provide you the opportunity to be validated and heard? Are you looking to develop strategies to help cope with life's stressors? I work from a person centered approach, providing evidence based counseling services to college students, and adults, facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions, career stress, anger issues, and interpersonal relationships. This means our work together will be conversation based allowing you the opportunity to feel validated and heard.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Are you looking for a warm, compassionate therapist who will provide you the opportunity to be validated and heard? Are you looking to develop strategies to help cope with life's stressors? I work from a person centered approach, providing evidence based counseling services to college students, and adults, facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions, career stress, anger issues, and interpersonal relationships. This means our work together will be conversation based allowing you the opportunity to feel validated and heard.
(910) 541-9679 View (910) 541-9679
Photo of Joyce Magbie, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Magbie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns of all ages (both youth and adults), including depression, anxiety, life stress, workplace stress, anger management, effective communication, grief/loss, dementia support & interpersonal and personal dynamics.
This supportive space is meant for you. Whatever hardships you have experienced, wherever you find yourself now, you are welcome here! I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with five years of experience in the field, including inpatient, outpatient, medical, and community-based practices. In this space, we will explore practical strategies to manage your concerns, alleviate anxiety and stress, and embrace/challenge how to navigate moving forward.
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns of all ages (both youth and adults), including depression, anxiety, life stress, workplace stress, anger management, effective communication, grief/loss, dementia support & interpersonal and personal dynamics.
This supportive space is meant for you. Whatever hardships you have experienced, wherever you find yourself now, you are welcome here! I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with five years of experience in the field, including inpatient, outpatient, medical, and community-based practices. In this space, we will explore practical strategies to manage your concerns, alleviate anxiety and stress, and embrace/challenge how to navigate moving forward.
(252) 659-5264 View (252) 659-5264
Photo of Kim Mason, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Mason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
Life can be challenging at times. Some situations in life can cause you to feel anxious, depressed, or maybe worried about someone in your family who is dealing with emotional distress. When transitioning through different phases in your life such as a new job, relocating, parenting, divorce, aging, loss, or retirement you may experience some significant challenges. Any of these situations in life may bring you to seek someone to help you gain perspective and coping skills for navigating through.
Life can be challenging at times. Some situations in life can cause you to feel anxious, depressed, or maybe worried about someone in your family who is dealing with emotional distress. When transitioning through different phases in your life such as a new job, relocating, parenting, divorce, aging, loss, or retirement you may experience some significant challenges. Any of these situations in life may bring you to seek someone to help you gain perspective and coping skills for navigating through.
(910) 543-2341 View (910) 543-2341
Photo of Sandra Sargent, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Sargent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cameron, NC 28326
Life can be challenging at times. Fortunately, you don’t have to struggle alone. It is often helpful to speak with an objective, compassionate, caring therapist who can help you increase your self-awareness and help you to see things from other perspectives. I believe that asking for help is a sign of strength. It’s the first step towards taking control of your life and making the changes needed to improve your emotional health and quality of life. Whether you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or confused, I can help you identify and clarify your thoughts and feelings and process them.
Life can be challenging at times. Fortunately, you don’t have to struggle alone. It is often helpful to speak with an objective, compassionate, caring therapist who can help you increase your self-awareness and help you to see things from other perspectives. I believe that asking for help is a sign of strength. It’s the first step towards taking control of your life and making the changes needed to improve your emotional health and quality of life. Whether you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or confused, I can help you identify and clarify your thoughts and feelings and process them.
(910) 716-8006 View (910) 716-8006
Photo of Katie Catton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Catton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
I currently specialize in treating trauma, abuse and mood disorders ( Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder), but am trained to work with additional diagnoses as well.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am currently providing outpatient therapy virtually and in person in Clayton, NC. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018, and my Masters in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2014. I have around 14 years of experience helping adults, teens and families in crisis. My passion lies with helping clients believe that no matter their past, they are worthy of love and a positive future.
I currently specialize in treating trauma, abuse and mood disorders ( Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder), but am trained to work with additional diagnoses as well.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am currently providing outpatient therapy virtually and in person in Clayton, NC. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018, and my Masters in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2014. I have around 14 years of experience helping adults, teens and families in crisis. My passion lies with helping clients believe that no matter their past, they are worthy of love and a positive future.
(984) 265-8549 View (984) 265-8549
Photo of Christopher Dillon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Dillon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I have helped adult clients to address mental health concerns including: depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, grief, life transitions, and more.
My approach is warm, laid-back, and collaborative. During an initial appointment I will ask questions to get to know you better and learn more about the issues you are seeking help with. Feel free to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation call. This allows us to briefly discuss your concerns and for us to ensure there is a good therapeutic fit.
I have helped adult clients to address mental health concerns including: depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, grief, life transitions, and more.
My approach is warm, laid-back, and collaborative. During an initial appointment I will ask questions to get to know you better and learn more about the issues you are seeking help with. Feel free to reach out for a free 15-minute consultation call. This allows us to briefly discuss your concerns and for us to ensure there is a good therapeutic fit.
(910) 776-4553 View (910) 776-4553
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I work with clients ages 15 on up struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes who desire to improve mood and learn healthy coping skills. I have experience working with people on the autism spectrum as well as people diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. LGBTQIA+ friendly. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
I work with clients ages 15 on up struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes who desire to improve mood and learn healthy coping skills. I have experience working with people on the autism spectrum as well as people diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. LGBTQIA+ friendly. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
(919) 635-1854 View (919) 635-1854
Photo of Tori Morgan, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tori Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I specialize in working with young adults and adults struggling with depression, mood, anxiety, who are overwhelmed with the stressors that life can naturally bring.
Do you ever feel worried, unmotivated, or like you're struggling with your relationships? You are not alone! Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for working collaboratively with you to learn new ways of overcoming life’s challenges. Focusing on building connections and improving communication with the people we love the most can improve your quality of life. Often times the best first step to getting better is simply the act of being heard and feeling truly understood.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults struggling with depression, mood, anxiety, who are overwhelmed with the stressors that life can naturally bring.
Do you ever feel worried, unmotivated, or like you're struggling with your relationships? You are not alone! Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for working collaboratively with you to learn new ways of overcoming life’s challenges. Focusing on building connections and improving communication with the people we love the most can improve your quality of life. Often times the best first step to getting better is simply the act of being heard and feeling truly understood.
(910) 541-5812 View (910) 541-5812

See more therapy options for Brunswick

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.