Depression Therapists in Utica, NY

Photo of Melissa Caldwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Melissa Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13502
Prior to entering private practice, I worked for over 20 years in outpatient and inpatient mental health settings providing therapy to a diverse population. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and often work with clients on exploring their identity. In particular, working with clients who have experienced trauma, including sexual abuse, and how this intersects with the way they see themselves, and their overall sense of self-worth. I also have over 15 years experience working with those suffering from depression, anxiety and severe mental illness.
Prior to entering private practice, I worked for over 20 years in outpatient and inpatient mental health settings providing therapy to a diverse population. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and often work with clients on exploring their identity. In particular, working with clients who have experienced trauma, including sexual abuse, and how this intersects with the way they see themselves, and their overall sense of self-worth. I also have over 15 years experience working with those suffering from depression, anxiety and severe mental illness.
(315) 509-8494 View (315) 509-8494
Photo of Jeana Penree, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Jeana Penree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13502
Life can be challenging at times and I can help you navigate through the tougher moments. I will help you combat negative self talk, self defeating behaviors, or just plain and simple stress associated with day to day life. While helping you to embrace a calmer existence I will assist you in finding the awareness you desire to balance distinguishable areas of your life. I am experienced in working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, situational stressors, grief, and school- or work-related issues. My therapy approach is eclectic, consisting of Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Strengths-Based Perspective.
Life can be challenging at times and I can help you navigate through the tougher moments. I will help you combat negative self talk, self defeating behaviors, or just plain and simple stress associated with day to day life. While helping you to embrace a calmer existence I will assist you in finding the awareness you desire to balance distinguishable areas of your life. I am experienced in working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, situational stressors, grief, and school- or work-related issues. My therapy approach is eclectic, consisting of Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Strengths-Based Perspective.
(315) 805-4355 View (315) 805-4355
Photo of Brandi Lloyd in Utica, NY
Brandi Lloyd
LMHC
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13502  (Online Only)
A major area of focus within my work consists of working with individuals who are struggling with various forms of complex trauma, such as physical and sexual abuse, depression, substance use and anxiety; however there are other needs that we may address together.
Do you find yourself struggling with feelings of being overwhelmed, irritable, or sad? Are you spending your day worrying, that despite knowing that you’re doing and trying your best, still feel like it’s not enough? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties. We will collaborate to find healthy ways to perceive yourself and strengthen the relationships around you. You are the expert of your own life experience. As a team we will challenge thinking patterns and change behaviors, ultimately helping you gain the confidence to make decisions and the courage to make change.
A major area of focus within my work consists of working with individuals who are struggling with various forms of complex trauma, such as physical and sexual abuse, depression, substance use and anxiety; however there are other needs that we may address together.
Do you find yourself struggling with feelings of being overwhelmed, irritable, or sad? Are you spending your day worrying, that despite knowing that you’re doing and trying your best, still feel like it’s not enough? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties. We will collaborate to find healthy ways to perceive yourself and strengthen the relationships around you. You are the expert of your own life experience. As a team we will challenge thinking patterns and change behaviors, ultimately helping you gain the confidence to make decisions and the courage to make change.
(315) 873-2145 View (315) 873-2145
Photo of James Brendan Ryan, Counselor in Utica, NY
James Brendan Ryan
Counselor, LMHC, CAS, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13502
I have over 30 years experience working with children and adolescents. I have worked in adolescent inpatient settings as a therapist and Psychologist. I have also worked with adults in outpatient clinic settings. I have had good success working with clients with anger control issues and ADHD features. I have lots of experience working with clients with depression and suicidal ideation. I have also done family therapy as well. I also have over 20 years experience coaching a variety sports at the high school level.
I have over 30 years experience working with children and adolescents. I have worked in adolescent inpatient settings as a therapist and Psychologist. I have also worked with adults in outpatient clinic settings. I have had good success working with clients with anger control issues and ADHD features. I have lots of experience working with clients with depression and suicidal ideation. I have also done family therapy as well. I also have over 20 years experience coaching a variety sports at the high school level.
(315) 235-1587 View (315) 235-1587
Daniel Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, ACSW
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501
I have a high success rate with people who struggle with depression and anxiety, as well as grief, anger management, coping, codependency, change of life and burnout.
I enjoy working with people regardless of race religion, lifestyle or past. The ideal client is a willing participant and open to making changes that lead to higher life satisfaction. I am best suited for people that want an effective, honest, real life and solution focused approach. Please see my website www.silvermanlcswr.com for more information.
I have a high success rate with people who struggle with depression and anxiety, as well as grief, anger management, coping, codependency, change of life and burnout.
I enjoy working with people regardless of race religion, lifestyle or past. The ideal client is a willing participant and open to making changes that lead to higher life satisfaction. I am best suited for people that want an effective, honest, real life and solution focused approach. Please see my website www.silvermanlcswr.com for more information.
(315) 790-6244 View (315) 790-6244
Photo of Nancy J Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Nancy J Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MA
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, depression, grief, interpersonal relationship, challenges with school life, low self worth, sleep disorders, trauma and women's wellness.
Since 2001 I have been providing holistic, strength-based services. Above all, I believe that each and every person is capable of rediscovering their true self. A significant part of achieving this discovery includes finding a trusted, supportive individual who will listen with compassion. I provide a safe, comfortable environment to sort through whatever has been preventing you from emotional health and well being. I would be glad to answer any questions you may have about the therapeutic process. Please feel free to call, text or e-mail me anytime.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders, depression, grief, interpersonal relationship, challenges with school life, low self worth, sleep disorders, trauma and women's wellness.
Since 2001 I have been providing holistic, strength-based services. Above all, I believe that each and every person is capable of rediscovering their true self. A significant part of achieving this discovery includes finding a trusted, supportive individual who will listen with compassion. I provide a safe, comfortable environment to sort through whatever has been preventing you from emotional health and well being. I would be glad to answer any questions you may have about the therapeutic process. Please feel free to call, text or e-mail me anytime.
(315) 505-8356 View (315) 505-8356
Photo of Tanya M Enigk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Tanya M Enigk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13501
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with many individuals in a variety of areas including but not limited to: Aging, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Developmental Disabilities, Grief/Loss, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Trauma/Abuse, Women's Issues.
Seeking out counseling services is a strength. It means you are willing to acknowledge that a new direction is needed and that you have the courage to face the issue. My mission is to provide you with a safe, caring environment which may foster the ability for you to become clear on your goals and develop the knowledge to achieve them. I believe success in counseling is a combination of gaining valuable insights and developing the goals to achieve peace in your everyday life.
I have worked with many individuals in a variety of areas including but not limited to: Aging, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Developmental Disabilities, Grief/Loss, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Trauma/Abuse, Women's Issues.
Seeking out counseling services is a strength. It means you are willing to acknowledge that a new direction is needed and that you have the courage to face the issue. My mission is to provide you with a safe, caring environment which may foster the ability for you to become clear on your goals and develop the knowledge to achieve them. I believe success in counseling is a combination of gaining valuable insights and developing the goals to achieve peace in your everyday life.
(315) 231-6174 View (315) 231-6174
Photo of Sandra A Mizerak, Counselor in Utica, NY
Sandra A Mizerak
Counselor, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501
I have been working as a licensed mental health counselor and a national certified counselor for over 25 years. My clinical orientation is eclectic, ranging from a variety of techniques including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology and Solution Focused Therapy. I have extensive experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, partner abuse, sexual violence, self-esteem, LGBTQ issues, empowerment and grief/loss.
I have been working as a licensed mental health counselor and a national certified counselor for over 25 years. My clinical orientation is eclectic, ranging from a variety of techniques including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology and Solution Focused Therapy. I have extensive experience working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, partner abuse, sexual violence, self-esteem, LGBTQ issues, empowerment and grief/loss.
(315) 401-7869 View (315) 401-7869
Photo of Mark Lundquist Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Mark Lundquist Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501
Perhaps you are depressed or anxious, maybe you are unsure about the future of a relationship? Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support.
Have a particular life obstacle that you are trying to overcome? Sometimes seeking help from an experienced professional is the best way to put things into perspective. As your committed professional mental health service provider in the Mohawk Valley, your well being and mental health is my number one priority. I am happy to help guide you through all of life's challenges with the attention and care that you deserve. Whether it's individual, couples, or family therapy, please rest assured that your needs can be met at Mark Lundquist Counseling, either in the office or via teletherapy.
Perhaps you are depressed or anxious, maybe you are unsure about the future of a relationship? Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support.
Have a particular life obstacle that you are trying to overcome? Sometimes seeking help from an experienced professional is the best way to put things into perspective. As your committed professional mental health service provider in the Mohawk Valley, your well being and mental health is my number one priority. I am happy to help guide you through all of life's challenges with the attention and care that you deserve. Whether it's individual, couples, or family therapy, please rest assured that your needs can be met at Mark Lundquist Counseling, either in the office or via teletherapy.
(315) 975-4094 View (315) 975-4094
Photo of Family and Personal Counseling , Counselor in Utica, NY
Family and Personal Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501
We are by your side! No matter the issue that you are facing... anxiety, depression, life issues, family issues, grief, couples therapy, stress relief, etc... we are ready to help. In this widely acclaimed practice, Ron Villano, M.S., LMHC, ASAC, CCH has assembled an elite team of over 35 providers. Our decades of success in talk therapy comes from creating a customized approach designed to encourage you to face your challenges with new life skills and professional support. You are here looking for that fresh start...and we will answer your call TODAY. We have 5 locations on Long Island and offer Telehealth to all of New York State.
We are by your side! No matter the issue that you are facing... anxiety, depression, life issues, family issues, grief, couples therapy, stress relief, etc... we are ready to help. In this widely acclaimed practice, Ron Villano, M.S., LMHC, ASAC, CCH has assembled an elite team of over 35 providers. Our decades of success in talk therapy comes from creating a customized approach designed to encourage you to face your challenges with new life skills and professional support. You are here looking for that fresh start...and we will answer your call TODAY. We have 5 locations on Long Island and offer Telehealth to all of New York State.
(631) 490-7930 View (631) 490-7930
Photo of Renew Hope and Healing - East Utica, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Renew Hope and Healing - East Utica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501  (Online Only)
Clinicians specializing in: anxiety, depression, panic attacks, adjustment problems, controlling relationships, grief/loss, trauma, bipolar and more.
Immediate Openings! Get scheduled in 7 days. Most insurances accepted. We have over 70 clinicians with all different specialities so we are confident that we can find the right fit for you! "I have been referring patients to Jeff Young for more than a decade. He is professional, caring, and insightful. Patients comment back to me how much their time with Jeff has been both helpful and healing. He is a gifted therapist!" - Michael Brennan, Doctor Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
Clinicians specializing in: anxiety, depression, panic attacks, adjustment problems, controlling relationships, grief/loss, trauma, bipolar and more.
Immediate Openings! Get scheduled in 7 days. Most insurances accepted. We have over 70 clinicians with all different specialities so we are confident that we can find the right fit for you! "I have been referring patients to Jeff Young for more than a decade. He is professional, caring, and insightful. Patients comment back to me how much their time with Jeff has been both helpful and healing. He is a gifted therapist!" - Michael Brennan, Doctor Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
(585) 628-1969 View (585) 628-1969
Photo of Natalie DeTraglia, Counselor in Utica, NY
Natalie DeTraglia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13502
Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ,allowing me to focus on building a custom approach for each one of my clients. We will begin by exploring where you are currently at in order to determine where you want to end up. Working together, we will establish a plan and celebrate your success along the way! My focus is on Anxiety & Depression, but I also love to help clients navigate their career journey as well as life transitions!
Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ,allowing me to focus on building a custom approach for each one of my clients. We will begin by exploring where you are currently at in order to determine where you want to end up. Working together, we will establish a plan and celebrate your success along the way! My focus is on Anxiety & Depression, but I also love to help clients navigate their career journey as well as life transitions!
(315) 758-5696 View (315) 758-5696
Photo of Jodi L Kapes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Jodi L Kapes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501
I am skilled at helping with life’s stressors specifically grief, anxiety, depression and trauma focused treatment.
My practice specializes in solution focused therapy utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach giving real time tools to feel better quickly.
I am skilled at helping with life’s stressors specifically grief, anxiety, depression and trauma focused treatment.
My practice specializes in solution focused therapy utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach giving real time tools to feel better quickly.
(315) 757-1022 View (315) 757-1022
Photo of Nancy Hillery-Lucas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Nancy Hillery-Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501  (Online Only)
Are you at a loss to understand yourself? Maybe you don't understand why you are depressed, anxious, prone to swings of mood, or having difficulty experiencing satisfying relationships. Do you want to suffer less? Like yourself and your life better? I listen, I care, and I help you understand how your experiences, and your thoughts related to those experiences, relate to your suffering (depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood swings, relationship difficulties, poor self-esteem, anger, shame). We collaborate to ID what you want to change in your life and how to achieve that, while accepting what can't be changed or controlled.
Are you at a loss to understand yourself? Maybe you don't understand why you are depressed, anxious, prone to swings of mood, or having difficulty experiencing satisfying relationships. Do you want to suffer less? Like yourself and your life better? I listen, I care, and I help you understand how your experiences, and your thoughts related to those experiences, relate to your suffering (depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood swings, relationship difficulties, poor self-esteem, anger, shame). We collaborate to ID what you want to change in your life and how to achieve that, while accepting what can't be changed or controlled.
(315) 812-3828 View (315) 812-3828
Photo of Jennifer Melli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Jennifer Melli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13502  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals around a variety of issues such as self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
As a therapist I help patients make sense of their lives, past and present, enabling them to understand what causes their current struggles. This provides an opportunity for change by creating more fulfillment. Therapy provides an opportunity to feel better and grow as a person. It can alleviate symptoms by providing insight which helps develop your most genuine and creative self. I start my sessions by getting to know you and assessing your needs while we build rapport. As I get to know you, I am able to tailor my treatment approach to best fit your needs.
I have experience working with individuals around a variety of issues such as self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
As a therapist I help patients make sense of their lives, past and present, enabling them to understand what causes their current struggles. This provides an opportunity for change by creating more fulfillment. Therapy provides an opportunity to feel better and grow as a person. It can alleviate symptoms by providing insight which helps develop your most genuine and creative self. I start my sessions by getting to know you and assessing your needs while we build rapport. As I get to know you, I am able to tailor my treatment approach to best fit your needs.
(607) 478-0414 View (607) 478-0414
Photo of Jennifer D’Amico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Jennifer D’Amico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFRC
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13501
Hello, Thank you for viewing my profile and considering me as a possible resource to meet your psychotherapeutic needs. At times it can be a struggle to find the right words to express our thoughts, challenges, needs, and wishes. This can lead us to feel stuck, misunderstood, or overwhelmed. In these instances we may find ourselves using maladaptive coping tools to make it through, which can lead to anxiety, depression or simply feeling stressed and unbalanced. If you are looking to find the right words, clarity, and tools to overcome these moments and achieve the balance that is right for you then we may be a great match.
Hello, Thank you for viewing my profile and considering me as a possible resource to meet your psychotherapeutic needs. At times it can be a struggle to find the right words to express our thoughts, challenges, needs, and wishes. This can lead us to feel stuck, misunderstood, or overwhelmed. In these instances we may find ourselves using maladaptive coping tools to make it through, which can lead to anxiety, depression or simply feeling stressed and unbalanced. If you are looking to find the right words, clarity, and tools to overcome these moments and achieve the balance that is right for you then we may be a great match.
(315) 753-5026 View (315) 753-5026
Teresa LoRe Pascarella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13501
I have over twenty years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults struggling with issues related to anxiety, oppositional defiance, depression, attention and focus difficulties, self harm, broken families. Many symptoms can be minimized by learning relaxation exercises, building strengths, learning distraction activities and improving communication skills. Academic and work challenges can be resolved by learning how to obtain the appropriate assistance and skills necessary to survive in today's world. I will work with your primary care provider if desired or necessary to optimize your care.
I have over twenty years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults struggling with issues related to anxiety, oppositional defiance, depression, attention and focus difficulties, self harm, broken families. Many symptoms can be minimized by learning relaxation exercises, building strengths, learning distraction activities and improving communication skills. Academic and work challenges can be resolved by learning how to obtain the appropriate assistance and skills necessary to survive in today's world. I will work with your primary care provider if desired or necessary to optimize your care.
(315) 352-4585 View (315) 352-4585
Photo of Jean Murphy Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Jean Murphy Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13502
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, isolated, stressed? Do you repeatedly engage in behaviors or relationships that don't help and may be harmful and find you can't stop? Whether these feelings & behaviors have been present for a long time or seemed to develop suddenly, it can be hard to figure out the cause or how to find relief. Sometimes distress is caused by prior trauma or by the coping skills developed early in life that are no longer effective or helpful. Personal growth, relief from emotional pain and discomfort, better relationships, and living a more fulfilled life are all possible.
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, isolated, stressed? Do you repeatedly engage in behaviors or relationships that don't help and may be harmful and find you can't stop? Whether these feelings & behaviors have been present for a long time or seemed to develop suddenly, it can be hard to figure out the cause or how to find relief. Sometimes distress is caused by prior trauma or by the coping skills developed early in life that are no longer effective or helpful. Personal growth, relief from emotional pain and discomfort, better relationships, and living a more fulfilled life are all possible.
(315) 510-4041 View (315) 510-4041
Photo of Michelle Burdick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utica, NY
Michelle Burdick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13501  (Online Only)
Everyone needs help and it's OK to not be OK. I specialize in adults (18+) transitioning into adulthood, new life roles, careers, relationships, family issues, parenting, or other challenges that life throws at us. I provide a caring and safe place to talk through your concerns, challenges and barriers. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem issues, relationships, LGBQT, and mood disorders. I always emphasis the importance of self-care and will help you develop personal methods. You don't have to suffer alone. Email me if you would like to meet and discuss your counseling needs and goals :)
Everyone needs help and it's OK to not be OK. I specialize in adults (18+) transitioning into adulthood, new life roles, careers, relationships, family issues, parenting, or other challenges that life throws at us. I provide a caring and safe place to talk through your concerns, challenges and barriers. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem issues, relationships, LGBQT, and mood disorders. I always emphasis the importance of self-care and will help you develop personal methods. You don't have to suffer alone. Email me if you would like to meet and discuss your counseling needs and goals :)
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Photo of Holly Irion, Counselor in Utica, NY
Holly Irion
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Utica, NY 13501  (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Holly Irion, an LMHC licensed in New York State, with 13 years of clinical practice. My expertise lies in addressing gender and sexuality-related issues, navigating relationships, and guiding individuals through life transitions. With extensive experience across diverse clinical environments, I excel in treating anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, trauma, and the unique hurdles faced during young adulthood. My focus is on empowering teenagers (15+) and adults, fostering self-efficacy, growth, and insight in their journey towards well-being.
Greetings! I'm Holly Irion, an LMHC licensed in New York State, with 13 years of clinical practice. My expertise lies in addressing gender and sexuality-related issues, navigating relationships, and guiding individuals through life transitions. With extensive experience across diverse clinical environments, I excel in treating anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, trauma, and the unique hurdles faced during young adulthood. My focus is on empowering teenagers (15+) and adults, fostering self-efficacy, growth, and insight in their journey towards well-being.
(518) 759-7186 View (518) 759-7186

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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.