Photo of Sharon Scott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Sharon Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Sharon Scott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of professional experience. She works with clients of all ages, but especially those suffering from anxiety, stress, depression, life transitional issues, women's issues, trauma, and more.
Sharon Scott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of professional experience. She works with clients of all ages, but especially those suffering from anxiety, stress, depression, life transitional issues, women's issues, trauma, and more.
(984) 230-4555 View (984) 230-4555
Photo of Ava Baker, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Ava Baker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Ava is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who works with a wide range of age groups; however, she has a passion for children and adolescents with issues such as anxiety, depression, and ASD. Having a child with autism sparked a passion for those individuals and families who face the challenges and struggles associated with a childhood disorder. Ava embraces the position that every individual can develop the skills to have a healthy and fulfilling life.
Ava is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who works with a wide range of age groups; however, she has a passion for children and adolescents with issues such as anxiety, depression, and ASD. Having a child with autism sparked a passion for those individuals and families who face the challenges and struggles associated with a childhood disorder. Ava embraces the position that every individual can develop the skills to have a healthy and fulfilling life.
(984) 213-5376 View (984) 213-5376
Photo of Georleena Douglas, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Georleena Douglas
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Georleena Douglas is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with years of experience practicing with adolescents and adults. Georleena specializes in anxiety, depression, sexual wellness and minor trauma, especially within the black community.
Georleena Douglas is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with years of experience practicing with adolescents and adults. Georleena specializes in anxiety, depression, sexual wellness and minor trauma, especially within the black community.
(984) 368-4467 View (984) 368-4467
Photo of Julio Steven Villacis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Julio Steven Villacis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604
Julio Villacis is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 7 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in community, school, and hospital settings to address mental health and psychosocial needs. He works with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral issues, challenges with life transitions, grief and loss, stress at work or at home, and challenges with relationships. He completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Rutgers University and his Master of Education (MEd) in Mental Health Counseling at North Carolina State University.
Julio Villacis is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 7 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in community, school, and hospital settings to address mental health and psychosocial needs. He works with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral issues, challenges with life transitions, grief and loss, stress at work or at home, and challenges with relationships. He completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Rutgers University and his Master of Education (MEd) in Mental Health Counseling at North Carolina State University.
(984) 201-7864 View (984) 201-7864
Photo of Jasmine Jefferson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Jasmine Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with individuals with anxiety, depression and present and past trauma.
Accepting New Clients. I believe that life is a journey and we all have a purpose that can bring us joy and fulfillment. There are challenges and obstacles that get placed in our lives that may push us off track or make it hard to focus. I aim to assist you with life challenges and obstacles so that you can regain focus and find joy and fulfillment.
My specialties include working with individuals with anxiety, depression and present and past trauma.
Accepting New Clients. I believe that life is a journey and we all have a purpose that can bring us joy and fulfillment. There are challenges and obstacles that get placed in our lives that may push us off track or make it hard to focus. I aim to assist you with life challenges and obstacles so that you can regain focus and find joy and fulfillment.
(984) 230-9093 View (984) 230-9093
Photo of Caroline Carlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Caroline Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
As one who has experienced personal trauma and loss, I have an authentic understanding of how we are impacted by painful life circumstances and how building of new life skills can empower us once again. Caroline Carlson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina with over 6 years of experience. She is passionate about navigating adults, senior adults, and older adolescents through the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and distress. Caroline's goal is to facilitate self-discovery of answers from within each client so they become equipped and empowered to move through the struggle.
As one who has experienced personal trauma and loss, I have an authentic understanding of how we are impacted by painful life circumstances and how building of new life skills can empower us once again. Caroline Carlson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina with over 6 years of experience. She is passionate about navigating adults, senior adults, and older adolescents through the challenges of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and distress. Caroline's goal is to facilitate self-discovery of answers from within each client so they become equipped and empowered to move through the struggle.
(984) 689-0026 View (984) 689-0026
Photo of Dale S Sheffield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis in Raleigh, NC
Dale S Sheffield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, PhD, MEd, LCMHCS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
My focus is Trauma, Addiction, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Mourning, Life Decisions, Post Traumatic Stress, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Self Injurious Behaviors, Suicidal Thoughts, & Trichotillomania (hair pulling).
I am pleased to announce the release of my new book, "Affirmative Parenting." It is available as an ebook and paperback version on Amazon. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, positive environment where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be explored and understood. I want to help people achieve problem resolution through personal and emotional growth. I have used this approach in a variety of mental health settings and, presently, in my private practice. Please visit my website for more details at www.drdalesheffield.com. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile.
My focus is Trauma, Addiction, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief & Mourning, Life Decisions, Post Traumatic Stress, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Self Injurious Behaviors, Suicidal Thoughts, & Trichotillomania (hair pulling).
I am pleased to announce the release of my new book, "Affirmative Parenting." It is available as an ebook and paperback version on Amazon. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, positive environment where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be explored and understood. I want to help people achieve problem resolution through personal and emotional growth. I have used this approach in a variety of mental health settings and, presently, in my private practice. Please visit my website for more details at www.drdalesheffield.com. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile.
(919) 913-8311 View (919) 913-8311
Photo of Cheryl A Johnson, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Cheryl A Johnson
Psychologist, PhD, MSW, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I recommend practical steps to heal your pain (grief, abuse, anxiety, depression) through developing your coping skills (reframing negative thoughts, communicating effectively, setting boundaries, seeking community support, meditating, journaling, exercising) to reach your goals.
I specialize in supporting individuals, families, or couples at each stage of life: families and teens preparing for college; adults contemplating career change; couples planning to marry or experiencing relationship difficulties; and women and men adjusting to aging, retirement, or conflicts with adult children. For 20 years, I worked as a clinical social worker and then completed my Ph.D. in psychology at mid-life. Originally from Nebraska and Colorado, I have lived in Indiana, Oregon, LA and now in Raleigh for 30 years. I've helped people from all walks of life, including diverse ethnic, racial and spiritual backgrounds.
I recommend practical steps to heal your pain (grief, abuse, anxiety, depression) through developing your coping skills (reframing negative thoughts, communicating effectively, setting boundaries, seeking community support, meditating, journaling, exercising) to reach your goals.
I specialize in supporting individuals, families, or couples at each stage of life: families and teens preparing for college; adults contemplating career change; couples planning to marry or experiencing relationship difficulties; and women and men adjusting to aging, retirement, or conflicts with adult children. For 20 years, I worked as a clinical social worker and then completed my Ph.D. in psychology at mid-life. Originally from Nebraska and Colorado, I have lived in Indiana, Oregon, LA and now in Raleigh for 30 years. I've helped people from all walks of life, including diverse ethnic, racial and spiritual backgrounds.
(919) 794-6262 View (919) 794-6262
Photo of Anju Verma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Anju Verma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, relationship issues, stress management and coping skills, low self esteem, communication, couples counseling, parenting guidance and support, are just some of the areas I provide treatment in.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
Depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, attention deficit disorder, relationship issues, stress management and coping skills, low self esteem, communication, couples counseling, parenting guidance and support, are just some of the areas I provide treatment in.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker /Therapist (LCSW) Board Certified in NC. I have over 20 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I provide Individual and Family Counseling and work with all populations such as children, adolescents and adults. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs, discuss behavioral issues and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths based approach in my work with individuals and families
(919) 415-0299 View (919) 415-0299
Photo of Patricia Lytwyn, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Patricia Lytwyn
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Patty Lytwyn is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with over four years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, trauma, mid-life transitions, and couples' issues, Patty treats patients between the ages of 11 and 70 utilizing Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Patty has extensive experience counseling older children, adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and couples in both clinical and outpatient settings.
Patty Lytwyn is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with over four years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, trauma, mid-life transitions, and couples' issues, Patty treats patients between the ages of 11 and 70 utilizing Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Patty has extensive experience counseling older children, adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and couples in both clinical and outpatient settings.
(919) 849-5938 View (919) 849-5938
Photo of Kirk Mochrie, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Kirk Mochrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Mochrie has expertise in the treatment of mood disorders and associated concerns, including anxiety and depression, personality disorders (primarily Borderline Personality Disorder), Substance Use Disorders, and ADHD.
Dr. Kirk Mochrie is a Psychologist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. He completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). He also received his master's degree from UNCW in Clinical Psychology, with a specialization in Substance Abuse Treatment. Finally, Dr. Mochrie completed his doctorate degree in Clinical Health Psychology at East Carolina University. Dr. Mochrie believes that treatment starts with a great assessment to fully understand a person's diagnoses as well as overall strengths and weaknesses.
Mochrie has expertise in the treatment of mood disorders and associated concerns, including anxiety and depression, personality disorders (primarily Borderline Personality Disorder), Substance Use Disorders, and ADHD.
Dr. Kirk Mochrie is a Psychologist in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. He completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). He also received his master's degree from UNCW in Clinical Psychology, with a specialization in Substance Abuse Treatment. Finally, Dr. Mochrie completed his doctorate degree in Clinical Health Psychology at East Carolina University. Dr. Mochrie believes that treatment starts with a great assessment to fully understand a person's diagnoses as well as overall strengths and weaknesses.
(919) 336-1451 View (919) 336-1451
Photo of William Etheridge, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
William Etheridge
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
William Etheridge is a Licensed Clinician Mental Health Counselor who has been passionately working for many years to aid in the management of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health difficulties. William completed his Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019 at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
William Etheridge is a Licensed Clinician Mental Health Counselor who has been passionately working for many years to aid in the management of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health difficulties. William completed his Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019 at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
(919) 343-5015 View (919) 343-5015
Photo of Victoria Baxter, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Victoria Baxter
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Victoria "Vicky" Baxter is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who has 7 years of experience providing services to all ages-children, adolescent, and adults-along with couples and family treatment. Vicky’s clinical background includes the Charlie Norwood VA where she worked with veterans of all ages with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. She then worked for a Community Service Board in Georgia, serving low SES populations and treating severe and persistent mental health issues.
Victoria "Vicky" Baxter is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who has 7 years of experience providing services to all ages-children, adolescent, and adults-along with couples and family treatment. Vicky’s clinical background includes the Charlie Norwood VA where she worked with veterans of all ages with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. She then worked for a Community Service Board in Georgia, serving low SES populations and treating severe and persistent mental health issues.
(984) 203-9639 View (984) 203-9639
Photo of Pam Koretsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Pam Koretsky, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
I have an all telehealth practice for adults who live in Florida and North Carolina using a HIPAA compliant video platform. In this stressful environment we live in, learning to be our own best friend can lead us down a happier path. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques we can understand the connection between our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, life transitions chronic pain and illness, depression, caregiver issues, low self-esteem and grief. These are only some of the issues. By using solution focused therapy, clients can begin to feel better in a shorter time frame.
(919) 605-3544 View (919) 605-3544
Photo of Elizabeth Marie Detweiler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Elizabeth Marie Detweiler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
I accept most major health insurance. Are you experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, any emotional issues, addiction? My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, compassionate & nonjudgmental place where counseling clients from all over The Triangle area and beyond can get encouragement and support as they navigate through the challenges of life. No matter what you're going through, depression, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, single parenting, dealing with narcissistic abuse and/or a addiction there is hope. Please contact me to set up a session today!"
I accept most major health insurance. Are you experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, any emotional issues, addiction? My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, compassionate & nonjudgmental place where counseling clients from all over The Triangle area and beyond can get encouragement and support as they navigate through the challenges of life. No matter what you're going through, depression, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, single parenting, dealing with narcissistic abuse and/or a addiction there is hope. Please contact me to set up a session today!"
(919) 885-0123 View (919) 885-0123
Photo of Amanda Furman Counseling, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Amanda Furman Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, BC-THC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing art therapy along with traditional "talk" therapy addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, parenting, and other challenges. I create a personalized approach (including utilization of techniques from art therapy, solution-focused, person and family centered, cognitive-behavioral, and Yalom therapeutic models) for the adolescents/adults served and empower you to develop the skills and confidence needed to address future issues. Art therapy provides the opportunity to further optimize possibilities for insight, processing, and developing new tools for expression of thoughts/ feelings in ways traditional therapy may not be able to bring about.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing art therapy along with traditional "talk" therapy addressing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, parenting, and other challenges. I create a personalized approach (including utilization of techniques from art therapy, solution-focused, person and family centered, cognitive-behavioral, and Yalom therapeutic models) for the adolescents/adults served and empower you to develop the skills and confidence needed to address future issues. Art therapy provides the opportunity to further optimize possibilities for insight, processing, and developing new tools for expression of thoughts/ feelings in ways traditional therapy may not be able to bring about.
(919) 666-3454 View (919) 666-3454
Photo of Comprehensive Community Supportive Services PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Comprehensive Community Supportive Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CSOTS, CJSOTS, MAC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616
I also have extensive experience with a variety of issues such as: depression, anger management, career counseling, sex addiction, domestic violence, life coaching, LGBTQ and self-esteem.
Welcome! My name is Jennifer Wilson and I am a licensed clinical social worker providing quality supportive services. I am motivated to provide quality care to children, adolescents, and adults. I continue to work tirelessly to stay abreast of current trends as an out-patient therapist. I earned my Master's in Social Work at Fayetteville State University with a concentration in mental health and substance abuse. I have experience with working with a variety of addictions including but not limited to: sex, gambling, workaholics, substance abuse, and love/relationship.
I also have extensive experience with a variety of issues such as: depression, anger management, career counseling, sex addiction, domestic violence, life coaching, LGBTQ and self-esteem.
Welcome! My name is Jennifer Wilson and I am a licensed clinical social worker providing quality supportive services. I am motivated to provide quality care to children, adolescents, and adults. I continue to work tirelessly to stay abreast of current trends as an out-patient therapist. I earned my Master's in Social Work at Fayetteville State University with a concentration in mental health and substance abuse. I have experience with working with a variety of addictions including but not limited to: sex, gambling, workaholics, substance abuse, and love/relationship.
(844) 562-2777 View (844) 562-2777
Photo of Tomeka Bridges, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Tomeka Bridges
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27650  (Online Only)
Tomeka A Bridges is Resident in Counseling (RIC) with over 13 years of experience helping clients of all ages who are suffering issues related to anxiety, depression, attachment or adjustment deficits, verbal, physical, or sexual abuse, low self-esteem, and more. Tomeka prides herself on offering individualized care, thanks to an eclectic counseling approach that utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, solutions-focused therapy, and more.
Tomeka A Bridges is Resident in Counseling (RIC) with over 13 years of experience helping clients of all ages who are suffering issues related to anxiety, depression, attachment or adjustment deficits, verbal, physical, or sexual abuse, low self-esteem, and more. Tomeka prides herself on offering individualized care, thanks to an eclectic counseling approach that utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, solutions-focused therapy, and more.
(919) 298-8329 View (919) 298-8329
Photo of Stephanie Skalos, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Stephanie Skalos
Counselor
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27650
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. She has been working since 2020 with adults, adolescents, and children who were seeking guidance with depression, anxiety, and personality disorders among others. Originally from Pennsylvania, Stephanie received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UNC-Greensboro and her Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from East Carolina University.
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. She has been working since 2020 with adults, adolescents, and children who were seeking guidance with depression, anxiety, and personality disorders among others. Originally from Pennsylvania, Stephanie received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UNC-Greensboro and her Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from East Carolina University.
(984) 204-6926 View (984) 204-6926
Photo of Zena Chase, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Zena Chase
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
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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.