Photo of LaVonne L Russell, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor in Clemmons, NC
LaVonne L Russell
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor, MS, LCASA
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
Do you find yourself being sad, mad, irritable, scared or just no longer joyful? Stress and emotional pain certainly impact performance, interpersonal relationship, physical and mental health. Chronic stress and emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, behavior complications and misguided coping through substances. This contributes to conflict with friends and family. Situations you once could manage become overwhelming.
Do you find yourself being sad, mad, irritable, scared or just no longer joyful? Stress and emotional pain certainly impact performance, interpersonal relationship, physical and mental health. Chronic stress and emotional pain can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, behavior complications and misguided coping through substances. This contributes to conflict with friends and family. Situations you once could manage become overwhelming.
(336) 920-8906 View (336) 920-8906
Photo of New Life Counseling Center, PLLC, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Clemmons, NC
New Life Counseling Center, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clemmons, NC 27012
New Life Counseling Center offers exceptional therapy services to residents of the Triad and surrounding areas. We are a private, group practice featuring therapists who specialize in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. It is our goal to retain only the best and most professional therapists to ensure that each and every client is treated with respect and care! It's our shared mission to provide top-notch mental health services available in a pleasant, professional setting. We take the extra time to learn about you so that we can match you up with the therapist who will be the best fit for your needs.
New Life Counseling Center offers exceptional therapy services to residents of the Triad and surrounding areas. We are a private, group practice featuring therapists who specialize in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. It is our goal to retain only the best and most professional therapists to ensure that each and every client is treated with respect and care! It's our shared mission to provide top-notch mental health services available in a pleasant, professional setting. We take the extra time to learn about you so that we can match you up with the therapist who will be the best fit for your needs.
(336) 439-3376 View (336) 439-3376
Photo of HigherMind Integrative Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clemmons, NC
HigherMind Integrative Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PSYCH-K, CHT
Verified Verified
Clemmons, NC 27012
PSYCH-K is a non-invasive, interactive process of change with a proven record of success over 30 years. A simple, yet powerful process changes subconscious beliefs that are self-limiting and self-sabotaging through a blend of tools for change, some contemporary and some ancient, derived from contemporary neuroscience research, as well as ancient mind/body wisdom. It's a groundbreaking approach to facilitating change at the subconscious level where at least 95% of our consciousness operates. PSYCH-K, as a stand-alone modality, transcends and complements standard methods of psychotherapy.
PSYCH-K is a non-invasive, interactive process of change with a proven record of success over 30 years. A simple, yet powerful process changes subconscious beliefs that are self-limiting and self-sabotaging through a blend of tools for change, some contemporary and some ancient, derived from contemporary neuroscience research, as well as ancient mind/body wisdom. It's a groundbreaking approach to facilitating change at the subconscious level where at least 95% of our consciousness operates. PSYCH-K, as a stand-alone modality, transcends and complements standard methods of psychotherapy.
(336) 360-3844 View (336) 360-3844

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lewisville Family Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Lewisville Family Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS/EdS, LCMHCS, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Advance, NC 27006
Our counselors specialize in areas including anxiety and depression, eating disorders, and treating clients from ages 3 to adults, families, and couples.
Accepting New Clients! You have one life to live and deserve to invest in you. We are here to help you on your journey to becoming your best version of yourself. Whether for your own sake, or to better yourself for the many roles in your life - partner, parent, son, daughter, co-worker, friend, global community member. When you make a positive change in yourself, the waves of those changes can be felt all around you.
Our counselors specialize in areas including anxiety and depression, eating disorders, and treating clients from ages 3 to adults, families, and couples.
Accepting New Clients! You have one life to live and deserve to invest in you. We are here to help you on your journey to becoming your best version of yourself. Whether for your own sake, or to better yourself for the many roles in your life - partner, parent, son, daughter, co-worker, friend, global community member. When you make a positive change in yourself, the waves of those changes can be felt all around you.
(336) 390-4830 View (336) 390-4830
Photo of Donna P. Dunlap, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Donna P. Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Areas of expertise: women's issues, adolescent issues, sexual & other trauma, anxiety/OCD/phobias, and mood disorders (depression/bipolar).
You've just taken the first step in a journey to the New Life you deserve. The thought of finding a counselor you trust, feel safe and comfortable with can be a little scary, but so is the alternative: living with frustration, pain, fear and confusion...with no end in sight. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients as they move from a painful existence to one of hope & joy and with confidence that they have the tools needed to create the life they want. Don't wait another day. Your New Life is waiting!
Areas of expertise: women's issues, adolescent issues, sexual & other trauma, anxiety/OCD/phobias, and mood disorders (depression/bipolar).
You've just taken the first step in a journey to the New Life you deserve. The thought of finding a counselor you trust, feel safe and comfortable with can be a little scary, but so is the alternative: living with frustration, pain, fear and confusion...with no end in sight. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients as they move from a painful existence to one of hope & joy and with confidence that they have the tools needed to create the life they want. Don't wait another day. Your New Life is waiting!
(336) 447-7610 View (336) 447-7610
Photo of Rio Collins, Psy.D., Psychologist in Clemmons, NC
Rio Collins, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
My website describes 10 areas covering some issues we can work together on: anxiety, depression, family of origin, grief, relationships, boundaries, shame, addictions, integrity and emotions.
The best therapy always starts with being accurately listened to, so you can feel deeply known. Then as we learn more about yourself, you build your inner awareness of your emotions, thinking patterns and interpersonal processes. I will be with you in each moment, neutrally observing you, and coaching you to do the same for yourself. Watching together instead of judging. Moving your personal narrative into your embodied experience. We then work together applying many tools for change. My therapeutic style supports you, taking your vague desires, or back burner dreams and making them into actionable words, goals, tools.
My website describes 10 areas covering some issues we can work together on: anxiety, depression, family of origin, grief, relationships, boundaries, shame, addictions, integrity and emotions.
The best therapy always starts with being accurately listened to, so you can feel deeply known. Then as we learn more about yourself, you build your inner awareness of your emotions, thinking patterns and interpersonal processes. I will be with you in each moment, neutrally observing you, and coaching you to do the same for yourself. Watching together instead of judging. Moving your personal narrative into your embodied experience. We then work together applying many tools for change. My therapeutic style supports you, taking your vague desires, or back burner dreams and making them into actionable words, goals, tools.
(980) 446-3487 View (980) 446-3487
Photo of Melissa Doerfer-Grace, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Melissa Doerfer-Grace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
(336) 592-7011 View (336) 592-7011
Photo of New Life Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clemmons, NC
New Life Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Accepting new clients! New Life Counseling Center is founded on the shared principles that every client deserves a therapist who cares about them and their experience: Someone who has the skills and insight to make a real difference. We believe that people aren’t looking for a paid friend, but a knowledgeable professional to connect with you and help you heal. Being able to sit with a caring person who has the skills, experience and objectivity to help guide you through the confusion and pain that can sometimes seem so overwhelming, can be life changing The warmth of caring, unconditional acceptance has healing power in your life!
Accepting new clients! New Life Counseling Center is founded on the shared principles that every client deserves a therapist who cares about them and their experience: Someone who has the skills and insight to make a real difference. We believe that people aren’t looking for a paid friend, but a knowledgeable professional to connect with you and help you heal. Being able to sit with a caring person who has the skills, experience and objectivity to help guide you through the confusion and pain that can sometimes seem so overwhelming, can be life changing The warmth of caring, unconditional acceptance has healing power in your life!
(336) 628-8522 View (336) 628-8522
Photo of Gary Atkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clemmons, NC
Gary Atkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
You are taking an important step, reaching out for help. Here is a bit about myself. I have over 30 years experience in the behavioral health profession, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in both California and North Carolina. I first received my certification in Health and Human Services in 1989 and completed undergraduate and graduate studies in 1995 earning a master’s degree in social work from San Diego State University.
You are taking an important step, reaching out for help. Here is a bit about myself. I have over 30 years experience in the behavioral health profession, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in both California and North Carolina. I first received my certification in Health and Human Services in 1989 and completed undergraduate and graduate studies in 1995 earning a master’s degree in social work from San Diego State University.
(336) 770-2396 View (336) 770-2396
Photo of Paige Bentley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Paige Bentley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, ACC, SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Life. Joys, sorrows, curve balls. In the midst of it all, we sometimes forget that we are naturally resilient, creative, and whole. We sometimes lose our compass. I’ve been there. When I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I was convinced that I had lost my ability to do the things that were meaningful to me and to feel alive. The reality of chronic illness-- as with life -- is that we never know what tomorrow will bring. Now, I see illness as a gift that reminds me to live each moment fully, trust in my capacity to accept and adapt, and listen to my soul’s calling for my time on this planet. I want that for you. You matter.
Life. Joys, sorrows, curve balls. In the midst of it all, we sometimes forget that we are naturally resilient, creative, and whole. We sometimes lose our compass. I’ve been there. When I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I was convinced that I had lost my ability to do the things that were meaningful to me and to feel alive. The reality of chronic illness-- as with life -- is that we never know what tomorrow will bring. Now, I see illness as a gift that reminds me to live each moment fully, trust in my capacity to accept and adapt, and listen to my soul’s calling for my time on this planet. I want that for you. You matter.
(336) 489-4621 View (336) 489-4621
Photo of William (Stacey) Steck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Clemmons, NC
William (Stacey) Steck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
We may not like to admit it, but sometimes we just need help in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and problems. Hey, if you could have "fixed" yourself on your own, you wouldn't be here looking for a therapist! With more than twenty years of experience as a pastor to complement my practice of therapy, I have seen how individuals of all ages, couples of all types, and families of all shapes and sizes both endure and solve problems, as well as how just a little effort can go a long way. The important thing for you to know is that there's nothing inherently wrong with you; you just need a little help working it out.
We may not like to admit it, but sometimes we just need help in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, relationships, and problems. Hey, if you could have "fixed" yourself on your own, you wouldn't be here looking for a therapist! With more than twenty years of experience as a pastor to complement my practice of therapy, I have seen how individuals of all ages, couples of all types, and families of all shapes and sizes both endure and solve problems, as well as how just a little effort can go a long way. The important thing for you to know is that there's nothing inherently wrong with you; you just need a little help working it out.
(704) 327-0562 View (704) 327-0562
Photo of J. Sophia Cory, Counselor in Clemmons, NC
J. Sophia Cory
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Waitlist for new clients
Thanks for taking a look at my page! I'm a queer, trans, and neurodivergent counselor in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, NC. I'm passionate about helping others develop new skills, find self-acceptance, and engage in a process of personal transformation. Whatever you are bringing to the table, I am here to be with you in your experience and help you along the way. Through authentic, healing relationships, I believe that we can begin to let go of barriers that keep us distant from others and our sources of meaning in life.
Thanks for taking a look at my page! I'm a queer, trans, and neurodivergent counselor in Greensboro and Winston-Salem, NC. I'm passionate about helping others develop new skills, find self-acceptance, and engage in a process of personal transformation. Whatever you are bringing to the table, I am here to be with you in your experience and help you along the way. Through authentic, healing relationships, I believe that we can begin to let go of barriers that keep us distant from others and our sources of meaning in life.
(336) 649-4551 View (336) 649-4551
Photo of David Stefan Bathory, Psychologist in Clemmons, NC
David Stefan Bathory
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I am a Psychologist/Neuropsychologist who specializes in trauma and gender identity (WPATH member). I practice in a group setting with another clinician. We offer individual individualized psychotherapy, designed to meet your needs using different best practice models of therapy. We provide evaluations for HRT and gender affirming surgeries (usually within 3 sessions). My practice specialties in working with children and adults; Gender, Relational Dynamics, Complex Trauma, & Rare Neuropsychological Disorders I help people across the world to find ways to work together and will help you to move forward in your journey.
I am a Psychologist/Neuropsychologist who specializes in trauma and gender identity (WPATH member). I practice in a group setting with another clinician. We offer individual individualized psychotherapy, designed to meet your needs using different best practice models of therapy. We provide evaluations for HRT and gender affirming surgeries (usually within 3 sessions). My practice specialties in working with children and adults; Gender, Relational Dynamics, Complex Trauma, & Rare Neuropsychological Disorders I help people across the world to find ways to work together and will help you to move forward in your journey.
(908) 444-1524 View (908) 444-1524

Online Therapists

Photo of Heather Fangman, Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Heather Fangman
Counselor, MS Ed, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Heather Fangman, MS Ed., LCMHC, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor. She graduated from Miami University with a BA in psychology and completed her masters degree in community counseling at Youngstown State University. Heather has experience providing individual, family and group counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults around issues including abuse and neglect, depression and anxiety, postpartum depression, high conflict divorce and reunification therapy, difficult relationships and parenting concerns.
Heather Fangman, MS Ed., LCMHC, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor. She graduated from Miami University with a BA in psychology and completed her masters degree in community counseling at Youngstown State University. Heather has experience providing individual, family and group counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults around issues including abuse and neglect, depression and anxiety, postpartum depression, high conflict divorce and reunification therapy, difficult relationships and parenting concerns.
(980) 321-0180 View (980) 321-0180
Photo of Michael Raúl Brown, Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Michael Raúl Brown
Counselor, MS, PhD, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
I've helped clients with issues such as depression, trauma, relationships, adjustment, Aspergers, grief, career, emotional disturbances, abuse, sexual orientation, faith, self-exploration, anxiety, and crisis during study abroad.
Sometimes we all can use a little help on life's journey--when things seem dark, when we feel like we are drowning in emotions, challenges, or thoughts, or when we just need someone to help with focus as we set a course toward achieving our goals. That is what therapy is all about! Therapy is not having someone with all the right answers tell you what to do or doing things to you; it is having a professional guide to draw out your goals and strengths, to breathe hope into difficult times, and to assist with perspective and skills. As Rumi said, "The wound is where the light enters you." Come, find hope, and refuel for your journey.
I've helped clients with issues such as depression, trauma, relationships, adjustment, Aspergers, grief, career, emotional disturbances, abuse, sexual orientation, faith, self-exploration, anxiety, and crisis during study abroad.
Sometimes we all can use a little help on life's journey--when things seem dark, when we feel like we are drowning in emotions, challenges, or thoughts, or when we just need someone to help with focus as we set a course toward achieving our goals. That is what therapy is all about! Therapy is not having someone with all the right answers tell you what to do or doing things to you; it is having a professional guide to draw out your goals and strengths, to breathe hope into difficult times, and to assist with perspective and skills. As Rumi said, "The wound is where the light enters you." Come, find hope, and refuel for your journey.
(919) 759-5627 View (919) 759-5627
Photo of Michael V. Kirch, Psychologist in Clemmons, NC
Michael V. Kirch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27262
Is your life held back by feeling overwhelmed, depressed, worried, stressed, poor sleep, bad habits, grief or mood-related problems? It would be a privilege to help you in a confidential, safe environment where we can work together to improve your quality of life one meaningful new perspective at a time. Let me help you return to your old, reliable self and even better! Providing a unique combination of approaches including psychotherapy, hypnosis, life-coaching, mindfulness practices, and informed mentoring.
Is your life held back by feeling overwhelmed, depressed, worried, stressed, poor sleep, bad habits, grief or mood-related problems? It would be a privilege to help you in a confidential, safe environment where we can work together to improve your quality of life one meaningful new perspective at a time. Let me help you return to your old, reliable self and even better! Providing a unique combination of approaches including psychotherapy, hypnosis, life-coaching, mindfulness practices, and informed mentoring.
(336) 895-1446 View (336) 895-1446
Photo of Yvonne Smith, Psychologist in Clemmons, NC
Yvonne Smith
Psychologist, PhD, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Pinehurst, NC 28374
I specialize in Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) and Hypnosis for the treatment of Anxiety, Depression and insomnia. I provide an integrative behavioral medicine approach with alternative options for health and wellness. I use the Alpha-Stim (R) CES medical device, and when combined with hypnosis, provides enhanced treatment results ....a possible viable alternative to medication. Alpha-Stim (R) CES has been available for some time with ongoing research by the DOD and the VA. My services are provided on a fee-for-service basis only... credit, debit and cash accepted. Fayetteville and Seven Lake/Pinehurst offices available for your convenience.
I specialize in Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) and Hypnosis for the treatment of Anxiety, Depression and insomnia. I provide an integrative behavioral medicine approach with alternative options for health and wellness. I use the Alpha-Stim (R) CES medical device, and when combined with hypnosis, provides enhanced treatment results ....a possible viable alternative to medication. Alpha-Stim (R) CES has been available for some time with ongoing research by the DOD and the VA. My services are provided on a fee-for-service basis only... credit, debit and cash accepted. Fayetteville and Seven Lake/Pinehurst offices available for your convenience.
(910) 208-4027 View (910) 208-4027
Photo of Billie Hinton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clemmons, NC
Billie Hinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moncure, NC 27559  (Online Only)
My name is Billie Hinton and I'm a licensed psychotherapist practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. I specialize in sexual abuse, PTSD, anxiety and depression, LGBTQ issues, and have worked with a wide variety of clients and concerns. I bring an eclectic set of modalities to my work and am excited to be offering EMDR as one of those. I'm a compassionate, creative clinician and my goal for each client is to create a safe, respectful, and effective space for change. (18+, not currently offering couples therapy)
My name is Billie Hinton and I'm a licensed psychotherapist practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. I specialize in sexual abuse, PTSD, anxiety and depression, LGBTQ issues, and have worked with a wide variety of clients and concerns. I bring an eclectic set of modalities to my work and am excited to be offering EMDR as one of those. I'm a compassionate, creative clinician and my goal for each client is to create a safe, respectful, and effective space for change. (18+, not currently offering couples therapy)
(984) 249-3602 View (984) 249-3602
Photo of Matthew D McMillan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Matthew D McMillan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCAS, LCMHC, CHT, CCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or unable to get your life on track? Are you an adult or teen stuck in the same pattern/ rut? Have you said I'm going to stop this "bad habit" of drinking/drugs/smoking only to find yourself disappointed again? You've come to the right place! Imagine when you tell your friends or family "My problem is gone!" I am a leader in the treatment of Mental Health & Substance Abuse. I created & ran the Moses Cone Hospital Substance Abuse program for 7 years. My creativity and innovation never stops; ask about our Horse Program for individuals/teams for breakthrough change!
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or unable to get your life on track? Are you an adult or teen stuck in the same pattern/ rut? Have you said I'm going to stop this "bad habit" of drinking/drugs/smoking only to find yourself disappointed again? You've come to the right place! Imagine when you tell your friends or family "My problem is gone!" I am a leader in the treatment of Mental Health & Substance Abuse. I created & ran the Moses Cone Hospital Substance Abuse program for 7 years. My creativity and innovation never stops; ask about our Horse Program for individuals/teams for breakthrough change!
(336) 814-9243 View (336) 814-9243
Photo of Amelia Kelley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clemmons, NC
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
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.