Depression Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Mary Jo Klingel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jo Klingel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
People often seek therapy when they have hit a wall in their lives. Maybe you have tried to do it differently this time, in your relationships or your work, or you have a sense that you are not where you want to be in your life. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress or trauma, or are in a major life transition. Whatever your needs or goals, you may have heard the small voice that says, "Maybe I need some help". My ideal client is anyone who is ready to listen to that voice, and knows that today is the day to reach out, and to seek the life you deserve.
People often seek therapy when they have hit a wall in their lives. Maybe you have tried to do it differently this time, in your relationships or your work, or you have a sense that you are not where you want to be in your life. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress or trauma, or are in a major life transition. Whatever your needs or goals, you may have heard the small voice that says, "Maybe I need some help". My ideal client is anyone who is ready to listen to that voice, and knows that today is the day to reach out, and to seek the life you deserve.
(980) 276-2744 View (980) 276-2744
Photo of Shirley Miller, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shirley Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
Exciting developments in neurobiology are showing that we can make physiological changes to our brains that impact persistent negative thought processes, depression and anxiety.
One of my favorite movie lines is spoken by Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) who barges into his therapist's waiting area and asks a room full of patients, "What if this is as good as it gets?!" Do you find yourself asking that same question? Have you settled for an existence well below that of your dreams? Do you feel that change is out of your reach? Have you fallen prey to believing the negative things you say to yourself? It doesn't have to be this way.
Exciting developments in neurobiology are showing that we can make physiological changes to our brains that impact persistent negative thought processes, depression and anxiety.
One of my favorite movie lines is spoken by Melvin Udall (played by Jack Nicholson) who barges into his therapist's waiting area and asks a room full of patients, "What if this is as good as it gets?!" Do you find yourself asking that same question? Have you settled for an existence well below that of your dreams? Do you feel that change is out of your reach? Have you fallen prey to believing the negative things you say to yourself? It doesn't have to be this way.
(704) 459-2780 View (704) 459-2780
Photo of Chadwick Royal, LCMHC, Counselor
Chadwick Royal
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216
My name is Dr. Chad Royal and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) based in Mebane, North Carolina and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently a Professor of Counseling and Chair of the Department of Counseling and Higher Education at North Carolina Central University. I work with individuals, couples, and families and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and partner/relationship problems.
My name is Dr. Chad Royal and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) based in Mebane, North Carolina and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I am currently a Professor of Counseling and Chair of the Department of Counseling and Higher Education at North Carolina Central University. I work with individuals, couples, and families and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and partner/relationship problems.
(980) 303-5838 View (980) 303-5838
Photo of Chip Helton, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Chip Helton
Counselor, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I am a professional counselor with special training and interest in anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Perhaps the stress of daily life, relationships, or your career is causing your quality of life to suffer. These feelings can cause distance in relationships, negatively impact your mood, and can lead to developing unhealthy coping mechanisms such as addiction or isolation. If this resonates with you, you certainly are not alone and I’m glad you found this page.
I am a professional counselor with special training and interest in anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Perhaps the stress of daily life, relationships, or your career is causing your quality of life to suffer. These feelings can cause distance in relationships, negatively impact your mood, and can lead to developing unhealthy coping mechanisms such as addiction or isolation. If this resonates with you, you certainly are not alone and I’m glad you found this page.
(704) 741-8468 View (704) 741-8468
Photo of Donald Gidney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donald Gidney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
My name is Donald R. Gidney. I have over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am currently licensed to practice in N.C. as an LCSW & S.C. as an LISW-CP. My areas of expertise include anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, phase of life issues, anger management, dual diagnosis, communication skills & PTSD. I use a person-centered & Adlerian approach to therapy starting with engagement which involves developing a relationship, building rapport & hearing the client's story so that I can gain an understanding of presenting problems.
My name is Donald R. Gidney. I have over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am currently licensed to practice in N.C. as an LCSW & S.C. as an LISW-CP. My areas of expertise include anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, phase of life issues, anger management, dual diagnosis, communication skills & PTSD. I use a person-centered & Adlerian approach to therapy starting with engagement which involves developing a relationship, building rapport & hearing the client's story so that I can gain an understanding of presenting problems.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Alexandria Richardson, LCMHC, Counselor
Alexandria Richardson
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I have treated patients with general anxiety, depression, personality disorders; you name it and I probably have seen it.
My names is Alley Richardson and I am here to help you discover your best self!
I have treated patients with general anxiety, depression, personality disorders; you name it and I probably have seen it.
My names is Alley Richardson and I am here to help you discover your best self!
(980) 842-7186 View (980) 842-7186
Photo of Amy R Jamerson - Amy Jamerson, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Jamerson, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
I have specializations in anxiety, depression, trauma, health issues, and grief & loss.
There are times when life or circumstances can feel overwhelming, making you feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want to be open to people around you and feel good about where you are going in your life. This can mean big changes or subtle shifts in what you are doing now. My style is collaborative and empowering, with the ultimate goal of giving you a better quality of life.
I have specializations in anxiety, depression, trauma, health issues, and grief & loss.
There are times when life or circumstances can feel overwhelming, making you feel stuck and unsure of how to move forward. You want to be open to people around you and feel good about where you are going in your life. This can mean big changes or subtle shifts in what you are doing now. My style is collaborative and empowering, with the ultimate goal of giving you a better quality of life.
(704) 459-1132 View (704) 459-1132
Photo of Mercedes Pierce, LMHC
Mercedes Pierce
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
As someone who has first-hand experience with depression and anxiety, I understand the importance of having someone trusted to talk to/help you.
My name is Mercedes Pierce, LCMHC and I look forward to helping you! With previous experience working in a mental health hospital, I am familiar with treating several diagnoses. I specialize in CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. However, I tailor my approach to the client’s needs. I typically work with clients 12 years of age and older dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and life changes (such as becoming a new parent and going away to college).
As someone who has first-hand experience with depression and anxiety, I understand the importance of having someone trusted to talk to/help you.
My name is Mercedes Pierce, LCMHC and I look forward to helping you! With previous experience working in a mental health hospital, I am familiar with treating several diagnoses. I specialize in CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. However, I tailor my approach to the client’s needs. I typically work with clients 12 years of age and older dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and life changes (such as becoming a new parent and going away to college).
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Shana N Cauthen - Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
Whether you are struggling with self-esteem, life changes, relationships, breakups or divorce, or if you are feeling anxious, depressed, challenges with work, seeking more connection with others, counseling is a courageous step and we can help you create your personalized plans with empathy, understanding, and the guidance you deserve.
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
Whether you are struggling with self-esteem, life changes, relationships, breakups or divorce, or if you are feeling anxious, depressed, challenges with work, seeking more connection with others, counseling is a courageous step and we can help you create your personalized plans with empathy, understanding, and the guidance you deserve.
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
(704) 850-6479 View (704) 850-6479
Photo of Jenna Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I frequently engage couples experiencing relationship difficulties, including intimacy issues, as well as, individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or a loss in their lives.
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
I frequently engage couples experiencing relationship difficulties, including intimacy issues, as well as, individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, or a loss in their lives.
Throughout our life's journey, we encounter a multitude of experiences. Some may contain extreme joy and happiness, while others can manifest feelings of doubt, sadness, anxiety or questioning if change or healing is possible in our current circumstances. During these difficult seasons we need the courage and perspective to explore challenging questions and the willingness to listen to the answers that emerge. My goal is to empower my clients and develop a rapport which promotes the confidence, skills and change agents needed to progress towards a direction that nourishes emotional and physical well-being.
(704) 729-7588 View (704) 729-7588
Photo of Saphire Hanna, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Saphire Hanna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Are you struggling in your relationships with family, partners, and friends? Have a difficult time managing work stress, more so than normal? Are you trying to avoid burnout? Does anxiety show up more often and make you feel overwhelmed? Are you too depressed to enjoy the things you used to enjoy?.
With a burning passion for mental well-being, I'm here to guide you toward a life filled with strength and fulfillment. I believe that life can be incredibly difficult to navigate, and sometimes we struggle to figure out what direction to build towards. Even more so, sometimes the lessons we learned in our past do not apply to the lifestyle that we are living today. This makes it difficult to succeed in all areas of life and to feel secure in ourselves. I hope that through therapy, personal effort, and hard work we can create a life that we feel proud of.
Are you struggling in your relationships with family, partners, and friends? Have a difficult time managing work stress, more so than normal? Are you trying to avoid burnout? Does anxiety show up more often and make you feel overwhelmed? Are you too depressed to enjoy the things you used to enjoy?.
With a burning passion for mental well-being, I'm here to guide you toward a life filled with strength and fulfillment. I believe that life can be incredibly difficult to navigate, and sometimes we struggle to figure out what direction to build towards. Even more so, sometimes the lessons we learned in our past do not apply to the lifestyle that we are living today. This makes it difficult to succeed in all areas of life and to feel secure in ourselves. I hope that through therapy, personal effort, and hard work we can create a life that we feel proud of.
(704) 387-5712 View (704) 387-5712
Photo of Ashley Burke, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Ashley Burke
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I currently work with adolescents, adults, and couples struggling with eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, BPD, PTSD, relational issues, and OCD.
Does life feel overwhelming right now? Anxiety, depression, and trauma have a way of dictating our thoughts and taking control. In other words, emotions are hard! It’s incredible how long the human body can hold in all the chaos that life brings. I want to help you let go of all of the distress you’ve been holding on to and take back that control. Life will always be unpredictable, however, together we can find ways to navigate through the storms.
I currently work with adolescents, adults, and couples struggling with eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, BPD, PTSD, relational issues, and OCD.
Does life feel overwhelming right now? Anxiety, depression, and trauma have a way of dictating our thoughts and taking control. In other words, emotions are hard! It’s incredible how long the human body can hold in all the chaos that life brings. I want to help you let go of all of the distress you’ve been holding on to and take back that control. Life will always be unpredictable, however, together we can find ways to navigate through the storms.
(980) 246-4759 View (980) 246-4759
Photo of Sally Harris, LCSW, MACT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
In addition to couples work, I offer individual counseling for frustrating, and even debilitating depression and anxiety - those who feel chronically stressed and overwhelmed & who want to find a sense of peace and balance, but are unsure how to.
I am a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist helping couples with marriage and/or relationship counseling. This begins with a thorough, research-based assessment which clarifies the particular strengths and needs of each couple. With this information, I collaborate with clients to develop treatment goals and a treatment plan. I have found this process highly beneficial in helping couples work through their challenges and reach increased stability and overall satisfaction in their relationships. I also integrate Christian counseling for those interested in integrating their spiritual and emotional development in their therapy.
In addition to couples work, I offer individual counseling for frustrating, and even debilitating depression and anxiety - those who feel chronically stressed and overwhelmed & who want to find a sense of peace and balance, but are unsure how to.
I am a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist helping couples with marriage and/or relationship counseling. This begins with a thorough, research-based assessment which clarifies the particular strengths and needs of each couple. With this information, I collaborate with clients to develop treatment goals and a treatment plan. I have found this process highly beneficial in helping couples work through their challenges and reach increased stability and overall satisfaction in their relationships. I also integrate Christian counseling for those interested in integrating their spiritual and emotional development in their therapy.
(704) 269-5731 View (704) 269-5731
Photo of Sostenes Lima, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sostenes Lima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I specialize in helping individuals who are looking to address experiences of trauma, anxiety, depression and more. I often work with professionals, creatives, athletes, parents and folks of color, creating a warm and welcoming space where you feel safe to process, release and heal. My therapeutic approach is relational, culturally sensitive, and client-centered and using my extensive expertise in Attachment Therapy, EMDR, Psychodynamic and Somatic Therapy to help you achieve your well-being goals. I'm a Columbia University trained therapist who has supported many individuals and organizations in becoming trauma-informed.
I specialize in helping individuals who are looking to address experiences of trauma, anxiety, depression and more. I often work with professionals, creatives, athletes, parents and folks of color, creating a warm and welcoming space where you feel safe to process, release and heal. My therapeutic approach is relational, culturally sensitive, and client-centered and using my extensive expertise in Attachment Therapy, EMDR, Psychodynamic and Somatic Therapy to help you achieve your well-being goals. I'm a Columbia University trained therapist who has supported many individuals and organizations in becoming trauma-informed.
(310) 220-4465 View (310) 220-4465
Photo of Julianna DeStefano, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julianna DeStefano
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
I have worked with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and history of of domestic violence/abuse.
I aim to guide my clients along the path to finding their truest, most authentic selves. I'm passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults who feel they have lost touch with their true selves, as a result of life challenges. Often time when we are struggling with something we can be easily overwhelmed and begin to feel isolated. We begin to feel as though we are no longer in control of our own lives, like someone else is now driving the car and we are simply along for the ride. Activities and relationships we once valued can begin to seem meaningless and no longer bring us joy.
I have worked with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and history of of domestic violence/abuse.
I aim to guide my clients along the path to finding their truest, most authentic selves. I'm passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults who feel they have lost touch with their true selves, as a result of life challenges. Often time when we are struggling with something we can be easily overwhelmed and begin to feel isolated. We begin to feel as though we are no longer in control of our own lives, like someone else is now driving the car and we are simply along for the ride. Activities and relationships we once valued can begin to seem meaningless and no longer bring us joy.
(980) 449-6535 View (980) 449-6535
Photo of Naomi De La Cruz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi De La Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202
Each person’s journey is filled with experiences and often challenges that shape their narratives of themselves and the world. Because of this each person’s definition of healing and fulfillment is different, and I believe that each of us holds our own unique resolutions and keys to finding peace. I have worked with many overcoming trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, transitions, self-esteem issues, difficulty with boundaries and interpersonal conflict. Through a nurturing supportive environment I build off a person's strengths, gifts, and relationships and create a safe space for individuals' to access their inner ability to heal.
Each person’s journey is filled with experiences and often challenges that shape their narratives of themselves and the world. Because of this each person’s definition of healing and fulfillment is different, and I believe that each of us holds our own unique resolutions and keys to finding peace. I have worked with many overcoming trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, transitions, self-esteem issues, difficulty with boundaries and interpersonal conflict. Through a nurturing supportive environment I build off a person's strengths, gifts, and relationships and create a safe space for individuals' to access their inner ability to heal.
(704) 859-0639 View (704) 859-0639
Photo of Camari Claiborne-Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camari Claiborne-Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with managing anxiety, depression, stress, or major transitions in your life? As a therapist, I’m extremely passionate about meeting individuals where they are and providing a person-centered approach that allows the client to be the expert of their own treatment. I like to take a collaborative approach as I truly believe that you are the only person who has overcome your experiences and understands how they have impacted you. Therefore, you are the only person who can be the storyteller of your own resilience.
Are you struggling with managing anxiety, depression, stress, or major transitions in your life? As a therapist, I’m extremely passionate about meeting individuals where they are and providing a person-centered approach that allows the client to be the expert of their own treatment. I like to take a collaborative approach as I truly believe that you are the only person who has overcome your experiences and understands how they have impacted you. Therefore, you are the only person who can be the storyteller of your own resilience.
(984) 339-0210 View (984) 339-0210
Photo of Chasity K Adams, PsyD, Psychologist
Chasity K Adams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Hello! I am a Licensed Psychologist. I serve individuals and couples who are experiencing depression, anxiety, disordered eating, substance abuse issues, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns, leadership and management efficiency, and past trauma. In addition to providing individual and couples counseling, I thoroughly enjoy facilitating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) workshops. Please follow me on social media to find out about upcoming workshops as well as inspirational videos and quotes.
Hello! I am a Licensed Psychologist. I serve individuals and couples who are experiencing depression, anxiety, disordered eating, substance abuse issues, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns, leadership and management efficiency, and past trauma. In addition to providing individual and couples counseling, I thoroughly enjoy facilitating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) workshops. Please follow me on social media to find out about upcoming workshops as well as inspirational videos and quotes.
(704) 240-5065 View (704) 240-5065
Photo of Keshia Ginn, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keshia Ginn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist who has worked with diverse populations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for connecting with women of color who are experiencing emotional & relational issues. Treatment focus includes depression, anxiety, identity concerns, grief/loss, boundary setting & healthy relationships.
I am a licensed therapist who has worked with diverse populations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for connecting with women of color who are experiencing emotional & relational issues. Treatment focus includes depression, anxiety, identity concerns, grief/loss, boundary setting & healthy relationships.
(704) 327-0589 View (704) 327-0589
Photo of Ashlee Lewis, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Ashlee Lewis
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Are you experiencing anxiety, sadness, or overwhelming emotions? Are you currently pregnant, trying to conceive, or a post-partum parent? Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, being a parent, gender identity, or navigating the LGBTQIA+ community, therapy is a way to learn more about yourself and ways in which to cope with life's difficulties.
Are you experiencing anxiety, sadness, or overwhelming emotions? Are you currently pregnant, trying to conceive, or a post-partum parent? Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, being a parent, gender identity, or navigating the LGBTQIA+ community, therapy is a way to learn more about yourself and ways in which to cope with life's difficulties.
(980) 246-2278 View (980) 246-2278
1
...
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.