Depression Therapists in Manzanita, OR

Photo of Chrystal Nelthropp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Chrystal Nelthropp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Manzanita, OR 97130
Are you seeking ways to enhance your emotional stability and experience a greater sense of focus and awareness? Is exploring and addressing past trauma, grief, and unwanted personal patterns important to you? Would you like guidance in understanding how your emotions are connected to physical symptoms and learning effective management techniques? Are you interested in learning ways to regulate your nervous system and relieve the fight, flight, or freeze response? Have you considered yourself to be highly sensitive or empathic, and want support in managing hypervigilance or neurodivergence? For any of your concerns I'm here to help.
Are you seeking ways to enhance your emotional stability and experience a greater sense of focus and awareness? Is exploring and addressing past trauma, grief, and unwanted personal patterns important to you? Would you like guidance in understanding how your emotions are connected to physical symptoms and learning effective management techniques? Are you interested in learning ways to regulate your nervous system and relieve the fight, flight, or freeze response? Have you considered yourself to be highly sensitive or empathic, and want support in managing hypervigilance or neurodivergence? For any of your concerns I'm here to help.
(503) 360-1506 View (503) 360-1506
Photo of Clark Miller Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Clark Miller Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manzanita, OR 97130
Your health deserves the highest quality care, and when we work together, you’ll get that - uncompromised integrity of personal, individualized therapy with the skills of a licensed, published substance use and behavioral health expert. I draw on direct practice experience in diverse settings with children, families and adults to offer individualized support for personal change. My work is grounded in understanding and commitment to therapies that work as established by research, not by tradition or business models - patient-centered therapy interactions that feel right: understanding, trustful, collaborative, and empowering.
Your health deserves the highest quality care, and when we work together, you’ll get that - uncompromised integrity of personal, individualized therapy with the skills of a licensed, published substance use and behavioral health expert. I draw on direct practice experience in diverse settings with children, families and adults to offer individualized support for personal change. My work is grounded in understanding and commitment to therapies that work as established by research, not by tradition or business models - patient-centered therapy interactions that feel right: understanding, trustful, collaborative, and empowering.
(503) 470-2471 View (503) 470-2471
Photo of Danesh Oleshko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Danesh Oleshko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, LLM, CADC I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manzanita, OR 97130  (Online Only)
My commitment is to offer effective therapy. As a person seeking therapy, you need a counselor who can understand and meet you where healing and growth is waiting to take place within you. Let's connect and find out if that counselor is me. I offer depth therapy that is emotionally sensitive, trauma-informed and transpersonal: integrating soul-searching and the management of daily life & relationships. My practice is integrative: weaving elements of nature therapy, body-centered expression and a receptive, feminine/masculine balanced approach.
My commitment is to offer effective therapy. As a person seeking therapy, you need a counselor who can understand and meet you where healing and growth is waiting to take place within you. Let's connect and find out if that counselor is me. I offer depth therapy that is emotionally sensitive, trauma-informed and transpersonal: integrating soul-searching and the management of daily life & relationships. My practice is integrative: weaving elements of nature therapy, body-centered expression and a receptive, feminine/masculine balanced approach.
(541) 204-8870 View (541) 204-8870

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Katja Biesanz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Katja Biesanz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheeler, OR 97147
I help where you are stuck -- body, story, nerves, or soul. Our difficult experiences can lodge many places. I have a big "tool chest" - from EMDR to mindfulness - to help you meet and transform what needs healing. I believe that each of us has a wholeness, no matter how hidden. I help you to contact that wholeness, in order to access your own wisdom. Together we find your unique path through to your truest self. What is waiting for you is a life of meaning and the ability to connect.
I help where you are stuck -- body, story, nerves, or soul. Our difficult experiences can lodge many places. I have a big "tool chest" - from EMDR to mindfulness - to help you meet and transform what needs healing. I believe that each of us has a wholeness, no matter how hidden. I help you to contact that wholeness, in order to access your own wisdom. Together we find your unique path through to your truest self. What is waiting for you is a life of meaning and the ability to connect.
(503) 743-8795 View (503) 743-8795
Photo of Empower Counseling and Rehabilitation, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Empower Counseling and Rehabilitation, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
Rockaway Beach, OR 97136  (Online Only)
My goal through therapy is to empower my clients to overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. I accomplish this through a holistic, trauma-informed approach integrating an assortment of evidence based modalities to meet the needs of my clients. Trained in all areas of wellness, I teach a variety of classes. Since 2009, I’ve worked extensively in social work, outreach, non-profit, and community mental health. The areas I feel most passionate about include: post traumatic growth, wellness, community, environmental awareness, equity, inclusion, parenting and developing healthy, interdependent relationships.
My goal through therapy is to empower my clients to overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. I accomplish this through a holistic, trauma-informed approach integrating an assortment of evidence based modalities to meet the needs of my clients. Trained in all areas of wellness, I teach a variety of classes. Since 2009, I’ve worked extensively in social work, outreach, non-profit, and community mental health. The areas I feel most passionate about include: post traumatic growth, wellness, community, environmental awareness, equity, inclusion, parenting and developing healthy, interdependent relationships.
(503) 386-0041 View (503) 386-0041
Photo of Angela Lehr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Angela Lehr
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
Not accepting new clients
I have professional experience and training in the areas of leadership development, transformational coaching, Mental Health First Aid, family systems, human development, mindfulness, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, career transitions, burnout, resilience, compassion fatigue, self-care, and general mental health counseling.
Everyone deserves a supportive, engaging, and safe environment in which to reflect, grow, understand, and establish an integrated sense of self - personally, professionally, and relationally. I have worked clinically with individuals, families, and communities for over 20 years. My current practice is focused on providing clinical supervision to counselors seeking licensure in MT and OR. I also work with counselors, educators, and human service practitioners providing consultation, professional development, and support regarding mental health, resilience-building, burnout recovery and prevention, holistic self-care, and well-being.
I have professional experience and training in the areas of leadership development, transformational coaching, Mental Health First Aid, family systems, human development, mindfulness, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, career transitions, burnout, resilience, compassion fatigue, self-care, and general mental health counseling.
Everyone deserves a supportive, engaging, and safe environment in which to reflect, grow, understand, and establish an integrated sense of self - personally, professionally, and relationally. I have worked clinically with individuals, families, and communities for over 20 years. My current practice is focused on providing clinical supervision to counselors seeking licensure in MT and OR. I also work with counselors, educators, and human service practitioners providing consultation, professional development, and support regarding mental health, resilience-building, burnout recovery and prevention, holistic self-care, and well-being.
(971) 270-0986 View (971) 270-0986
Photo of Megan Elizabeth Irving, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Megan Elizabeth Irving
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockaway Beach, OR 97136  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
If you are thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a beneficial change. I work with individuals to help them take positive steps toward leading more fulfilling lives. When you are ready to examine your life in a safe, supportive environment, I invite you to get in touch with me. Together we'll take a look at your past in order to understand how you got to where you are presently and work to make changes that will enhance your life.
If you are thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a beneficial change. I work with individuals to help them take positive steps toward leading more fulfilling lives. When you are ready to examine your life in a safe, supportive environment, I invite you to get in touch with me. Together we'll take a look at your past in order to understand how you got to where you are presently and work to make changes that will enhance your life.
(503) 451-6185 View (503) 451-6185

Online Therapists

Photo of Erin Reyburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Manzanita, OR
Erin Reyburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilsonville, OR 97070  (Online Only)
​I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relational stressors.
I am a state-licensed and board-certified Professional Counselor in Oregon and Washington. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and began my clinical work in the mental health field in 2006.
​I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relational stressors.
I am a state-licensed and board-certified Professional Counselor in Oregon and Washington. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and began my clinical work in the mental health field in 2006.
(503) 455-7381 View (503) 455-7381
Photo of Emily Radcliffe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Manzanita, OR
Emily Radcliffe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I specialize in helping folx manage and process challenges such as depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, difficulty with communication between couples, and navigating parent/child relationships.
Difficulty communicating with or feeling heard by your partner, parent, or child? Encountering a major transition? Want to set firmer boundaries, develop more self compassion, learn to manage anxiety, or process trauma? I can provide insight, reflection, and a compassionate and supportive space to explore your inner landscape and begin healing. I believe the tools you need to grow and thrive are already within you. You deserve an authentic therapeutic experience so you can discover and refine those tools. I strive to tailor your experience by offering a wide range of healing tools that feel genuine and actionable.
I specialize in helping folx manage and process challenges such as depression, anxiety, panic, ADHD, difficulty with communication between couples, and navigating parent/child relationships.
Difficulty communicating with or feeling heard by your partner, parent, or child? Encountering a major transition? Want to set firmer boundaries, develop more self compassion, learn to manage anxiety, or process trauma? I can provide insight, reflection, and a compassionate and supportive space to explore your inner landscape and begin healing. I believe the tools you need to grow and thrive are already within you. You deserve an authentic therapeutic experience so you can discover and refine those tools. I strive to tailor your experience by offering a wide range of healing tools that feel genuine and actionable.
(971) 247-3623 View (971) 247-3623
Photo of Sarah Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Sarah Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
My name is Sarah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and chronic illness -just to name a few.
Hi there, if you've been feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges, I'm here to help. My ideal clients are those navigating big life transitions, experiencing relationship challenges, grieving a loss, or struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression. They want to find a safe space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported on their journey towards healing and growth. My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs, with empathy, compassion, and practical strategies to help them feel better.
My name is Sarah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and chronic illness -just to name a few.
Hi there, if you've been feeling stuck or overwhelmed by life's challenges, I'm here to help. My ideal clients are those navigating big life transitions, experiencing relationship challenges, grieving a loss, or struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression. They want to find a safe space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported on their journey towards healing and growth. My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs, with empathy, compassion, and practical strategies to help them feel better.
(503) 483-6927 View (503) 483-6927
Photo of Alisha Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Alisha Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with stress, depression, anxiety? Do you feel overwhelmed, or like you past/ current trauma is keeping your from living your best like? Do you desire to unlearn some of your unhealthy ways of doing things and learn new helpful tactics for everyday situations? If this sounds familiar to you and you are tired of doing the same things and feeling stuck, I would like to help. Therapy is a place where you can establish and reclaim your sense of self and learn to live freely. We will work together to explore behaviors and thought patterns to encourage personal growth.
Do you struggle with stress, depression, anxiety? Do you feel overwhelmed, or like you past/ current trauma is keeping your from living your best like? Do you desire to unlearn some of your unhealthy ways of doing things and learn new helpful tactics for everyday situations? If this sounds familiar to you and you are tired of doing the same things and feeling stuck, I would like to help. Therapy is a place where you can establish and reclaim your sense of self and learn to live freely. We will work together to explore behaviors and thought patterns to encourage personal growth.
(503) 436-6523 View (503) 436-6523
Photo of Dr. Michelle Millis Chappel in Manzanita, OR
Dr. Michelle Millis Chappel
Coach, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I work with clients who struggle with stress, anxiety, or depression because they feel stuck or uncertain about their future.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a life transition or stressed out in a job or lifestyle that doesn't fit who you are? I'm a Cognitive Psychologist and Life Coach with a Ph.D. from Princeton who has helped thousands of clients find their true callings and flourish in meaningful lives and careers using their greatest gifts. I create a safe environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, challenge limiting beliefs, discover your unique superpowers, and take practical steps to create a life that's true to you. Together we can make a plan to overcome work and life challenges and find a path that brings you more joy and success.
I work with clients who struggle with stress, anxiety, or depression because they feel stuck or uncertain about their future.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a life transition or stressed out in a job or lifestyle that doesn't fit who you are? I'm a Cognitive Psychologist and Life Coach with a Ph.D. from Princeton who has helped thousands of clients find their true callings and flourish in meaningful lives and careers using their greatest gifts. I create a safe environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, challenge limiting beliefs, discover your unique superpowers, and take practical steps to create a life that's true to you. Together we can make a plan to overcome work and life challenges and find a path that brings you more joy and success.
(503) 212-0207 View (503) 212-0207
Photo of Goali Saedi Bocci, Psychologist in Manzanita, OR
Goali Saedi Bocci
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Having trained at Notre Dame, UC Berkeley and Stanford, I bring rigorous scientific expertise into my clinical work with adolescents (ages 14-24), college students, and women. I assist clients with a range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, vocational or academic concerns, ADHD, relationship concerns, eating disorders, perfectionism, life transitions, multicultural and identity concerns, as well as family of origin challenges. I often work with high-achieving individuals who find themselves looking for practical solutions to the barriers that impede their success.
Having trained at Notre Dame, UC Berkeley and Stanford, I bring rigorous scientific expertise into my clinical work with adolescents (ages 14-24), college students, and women. I assist clients with a range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, vocational or academic concerns, ADHD, relationship concerns, eating disorders, perfectionism, life transitions, multicultural and identity concerns, as well as family of origin challenges. I often work with high-achieving individuals who find themselves looking for practical solutions to the barriers that impede their success.
(520) 438-6429 View (520) 438-6429
Photo of Minah Oh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manzanita, OR
Minah Oh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124
I firmly believe that the family is the foundation for all positive culture and society. If the married couple remains strong, the family will most likely be healthy, thus avoiding many troubles caused by separation or divorce. I long to help families become strong and healthy so that the children may feel secure and confident at home. I desire to work with children, teens, individuals, and couples on a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, Multicultural/Identity issues, infertility, marital concerns, adjustment to life transitions, parenting skills, as well as spiritual concerns.
I firmly believe that the family is the foundation for all positive culture and society. If the married couple remains strong, the family will most likely be healthy, thus avoiding many troubles caused by separation or divorce. I long to help families become strong and healthy so that the children may feel secure and confident at home. I desire to work with children, teens, individuals, and couples on a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, Multicultural/Identity issues, infertility, marital concerns, adjustment to life transitions, parenting skills, as well as spiritual concerns.
(971) 315-4744 View (971) 315-4744
Photo of Cole Struhar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Manzanita, OR
Cole Struhar
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97003
Behaviors like drug/porn addiction and anger often develop out of misguided (but sincere) attempts to manage stress, depression, and identity issues.
I am now accepting new clients… This is a complex world. It is reasonable to reach moments when one needs a sounding board and support navigating the complexity. I work with men experiencing addiction, stress, anxiety, relationship conflict, depression, and issues related to esteem/shame/identity. It is my intention to help you identify your survival strategies, integrate the wisdom necessary to change, and access more power and ease. Men with professional & personal responsibilities need sophisticated support to access their innate wisdom and develop healthy coping that aligns with their values & goals. I am unusually confidential.
Behaviors like drug/porn addiction and anger often develop out of misguided (but sincere) attempts to manage stress, depression, and identity issues.
I am now accepting new clients… This is a complex world. It is reasonable to reach moments when one needs a sounding board and support navigating the complexity. I work with men experiencing addiction, stress, anxiety, relationship conflict, depression, and issues related to esteem/shame/identity. It is my intention to help you identify your survival strategies, integrate the wisdom necessary to change, and access more power and ease. Men with professional & personal responsibilities need sophisticated support to access their innate wisdom and develop healthy coping that aligns with their values & goals. I am unusually confidential.
(971) 606-5045 View (971) 606-5045
Photo of Sierra Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Sierra Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Areas I’ve had most training and experience treating are anxiety, trauma (including complex trauma), depression, grief/loss, interpersonal issues, veterans issues, stress, self-esteem, issues related to shame and forgiveness, anger, and impulse control.
I enjoy working with teens and adults along their journey towards finding resilience and strength in difficult situations. My practice is grounded in a person-centered approach and I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma and extreme anxiety, starting by creating an atmosphere of safety. I strive to meet your "survival" strategies with validation and kindness as we explore positive changes that you want to make in your life.  My approach is primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with emphasis on mindfulness-based and integrative strategies.
Areas I’ve had most training and experience treating are anxiety, trauma (including complex trauma), depression, grief/loss, interpersonal issues, veterans issues, stress, self-esteem, issues related to shame and forgiveness, anger, and impulse control.
I enjoy working with teens and adults along their journey towards finding resilience and strength in difficult situations. My practice is grounded in a person-centered approach and I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma and extreme anxiety, starting by creating an atmosphere of safety. I strive to meet your "survival" strategies with validation and kindness as we explore positive changes that you want to make in your life.  My approach is primarily based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with emphasis on mindfulness-based and integrative strategies.
(775) 402-2985 View (775) 402-2985
Photo of Roseanne Pikul, Marriage & Family Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Roseanne Pikul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, trauma including childhood, sexual, medical & religious.
Welcome, I'm Roseanne and I am honored to help women who have survived hard things heal and evolve their lives. I bring an empathetic, open, and non-judgmental presence to my work and I am committed to creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings and gain clarity about what's getting in the way of you having a life worth waking up for everyday. I specialize in providing individual therapy for women who have a diverse range of life experiences and challenges.
My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, trauma including childhood, sexual, medical & religious.
Welcome, I'm Roseanne and I am honored to help women who have survived hard things heal and evolve their lives. I bring an empathetic, open, and non-judgmental presence to my work and I am committed to creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings and gain clarity about what's getting in the way of you having a life worth waking up for everyday. I specialize in providing individual therapy for women who have a diverse range of life experiences and challenges.
(503) 376-9311 View (503) 376-9311
Photo of David W Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Manzanita, OR
David W Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Portland, Oregon based Mental Health Clinician with nearly 20 years experience providing mental health counseling, crisis assessments/intervention, and supervision for licensure. Licensed in both Oregon and Washington. Specializing in grief, loss, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, and adjusting to new medical diagnoses. Experienced in providing assessments for emotional support animals and pet loss grief support. Certified Mindfullness-Based Stress Reduction Counselor and Trained in Animal Assisted Interventions. Approved to provide Clinical Supervision towards licensure in Oregon.
Portland, Oregon based Mental Health Clinician with nearly 20 years experience providing mental health counseling, crisis assessments/intervention, and supervision for licensure. Licensed in both Oregon and Washington. Specializing in grief, loss, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, and adjusting to new medical diagnoses. Experienced in providing assessments for emotional support animals and pet loss grief support. Certified Mindfullness-Based Stress Reduction Counselor and Trained in Animal Assisted Interventions. Approved to provide Clinical Supervision towards licensure in Oregon.
(971) 290-1453 View (971) 290-1453
Photo of Meg Craig, Marriage & Family Therapist in Manzanita, OR
Meg Craig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I have spent several years treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, social anxiety, OCD and difficulties with life transitions.
Life can be unpredictable, for better or for worse, and sometimes a little extra support is needed to get by. At especially challenging times, I offer warmth and compassion, in an effort to assure clients that they do not walk alone. Although therapy can sometimes be a messy process, I feel that the end result is worth every hectic moment.
I have spent several years treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, social anxiety, OCD and difficulties with life transitions.
Life can be unpredictable, for better or for worse, and sometimes a little extra support is needed to get by. At especially challenging times, I offer warmth and compassion, in an effort to assure clients that they do not walk alone. Although therapy can sometimes be a messy process, I feel that the end result is worth every hectic moment.
(503) 964-6701 View (503) 964-6701
Photo of Jennifer E Kelly, Psychologist in Manzanita, OR
Jennifer E Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples who are struggling with relationship concerns, trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, transitions in life, and ethical non monogamy.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
I work with adults and couples who are struggling with relationship concerns, trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, transitions in life, and ethical non monogamy.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
(503) 406-6634 View (503) 406-6634

See more therapy options for Manzanita

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.