Photo of Robin Kellett, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Robin Kellett, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
Living with anxieties / fears, depression and stress can be overwhelming. One may resort to avoidance and unhealthy lifestyle choices as a means of escape. I offer a safe place and opportunity for you to explore your concerns while learning healthy and effective ways to manage intense feelings and resolve problems. Our work together can help you uncover issues that impact your present, learn different ways of looking at things and grow confidence in your ability to live well.
Living with anxieties / fears, depression and stress can be overwhelming. One may resort to avoidance and unhealthy lifestyle choices as a means of escape. I offer a safe place and opportunity for you to explore your concerns while learning healthy and effective ways to manage intense feelings and resolve problems. Our work together can help you uncover issues that impact your present, learn different ways of looking at things and grow confidence in your ability to live well.
(978) 415-9926 View (978) 415-9926
Photo of Traci Heward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Traci Heward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
I get it - seeking support isn't always easy. It requires a great deal of courage. Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience in our lives. I help people work through the unrelenting cycle of stress, worry, and shame that comes with anxiety and trauma. Depression can feel like a weight that you're always carrying. Through counseling and treatment, you can recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life. Taking a mind-body approach to your care, you can learn the tools that help you move through these issues.
I get it - seeking support isn't always easy. It requires a great deal of courage. Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience in our lives. I help people work through the unrelenting cycle of stress, worry, and shame that comes with anxiety and trauma. Depression can feel like a weight that you're always carrying. Through counseling and treatment, you can recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life. Taking a mind-body approach to your care, you can learn the tools that help you move through these issues.
(503) 436-6381 View (503) 436-6381
Photo of Don Becker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Don Becker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues whether single or currently in relationship, self-esteem, Substance abuse and recovery skills building.
No matter how difficult the problem you are facing, there is a solution. My therapeutic approach is designed to help you gain awareness and understanding into whatever is troubling you and to assist you in developing the practical skills to handle these issues more effectively. I believe that within our problems lie the keys to further growth and development when they are unfolded with awareness. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your desired goals in therapy.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues whether single or currently in relationship, self-esteem, Substance abuse and recovery skills building.
No matter how difficult the problem you are facing, there is a solution. My therapeutic approach is designed to help you gain awareness and understanding into whatever is troubling you and to assist you in developing the practical skills to handle these issues more effectively. I believe that within our problems lie the keys to further growth and development when they are unfolded with awareness. Together, we will create a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your desired goals in therapy.
(503) 567-5428 View (503) 567-5428
Photo of Daniel Chenoweth, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Daniel Chenoweth
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I specialize in individual therapy which focuses on anxiety, depression, and trauma. My work typically centers around assisting the client to enhance their own awareness capabilities, processing traumatic experiences, exploring core beliefs derived from these experiences, and collaboratively working to undo false narratives which have created the anxiety and mood symptoms bringing them into treatment.
I specialize in individual therapy which focuses on anxiety, depression, and trauma. My work typically centers around assisting the client to enhance their own awareness capabilities, processing traumatic experiences, exploring core beliefs derived from these experiences, and collaboratively working to undo false narratives which have created the anxiety and mood symptoms bringing them into treatment.
(503) 694-9634 View (503) 694-9634
Photo of Jordan Valentine, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Jordan Valentine
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Jordan and I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating teens 14 and older, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, chronic pain/illness, neurodivergent issues, and LGBTQ support. My professional lens is guided by the belief that all individuals have the ability to heal when they have the tools and safe space to do so. I recognize people as experts of their own lives, and work in collaboration with clients in accessing empowerment. I work from an anti-oppressive world view and offer a strength-based approach.
Hello my name is Jordan and I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating teens 14 and older, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, chronic pain/illness, neurodivergent issues, and LGBTQ support. My professional lens is guided by the belief that all individuals have the ability to heal when they have the tools and safe space to do so. I recognize people as experts of their own lives, and work in collaboration with clients in accessing empowerment. I work from an anti-oppressive world view and offer a strength-based approach.
(503) 832-6646 View (503) 832-6646
Photo of Lynne Coon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lynne Coon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
I've worked with others, like you, who struggled with anxiety, OCD or depression.
Is anxiety holding you back? If you worry more than you'd like; feel stuck because of fear; lose sleep because you can't shut your mind off; get thoughts and ideas stuck in your head that you can't let go of; feel tense and nervous too often; or avoid social situations, I can help. You'll learn to move forward in spite of fears, challenge worries and beliefs keeping you stuck or causing you to avoid people or certain situations and live life with a feeling of calm and ease. Call or email and let's get started!
I've worked with others, like you, who struggled with anxiety, OCD or depression.
Is anxiety holding you back? If you worry more than you'd like; feel stuck because of fear; lose sleep because you can't shut your mind off; get thoughts and ideas stuck in your head that you can't let go of; feel tense and nervous too often; or avoid social situations, I can help. You'll learn to move forward in spite of fears, challenge worries and beliefs keeping you stuck or causing you to avoid people or certain situations and live life with a feeling of calm and ease. Call or email and let's get started!
(503) 917-3286 View (503) 917-3286
Photo of Jacky Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Jacky Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230  (Online Only)
*TELEHEALTH ONLY* Depression, anxiety, and anger can easily overwhelm us when we feel stuck between accepting our problems and changing them. I provide solution-focused, cognitive and behavioral approaches to help clients find the balance between these two seemingly opposing realities. I believe people are already doing the best they can, and that we all need extra support at times to get “unstuck.” I view my clients as the experts in their own lives; my role is to collaborate with them to find more effective solutions to their problems. I will work with you to create a clear path towards creating the life you want to live.
*TELEHEALTH ONLY* Depression, anxiety, and anger can easily overwhelm us when we feel stuck between accepting our problems and changing them. I provide solution-focused, cognitive and behavioral approaches to help clients find the balance between these two seemingly opposing realities. I believe people are already doing the best they can, and that we all need extra support at times to get “unstuck.” I view my clients as the experts in their own lives; my role is to collaborate with them to find more effective solutions to their problems. I will work with you to create a clear path towards creating the life you want to live.
(971) 351-4746 View (971) 351-4746
Photo of Lesley Alter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lesley Alter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I specialize working with depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, parent-child conflict, substance abuse recovery, low-self-esteem, grief/loss, relationship problems and food addictions.
Everybody has a story. Often our stories about ourselves and others are formulated when we are very young, trying to make sense of what is going on around us. These stories are often untrue. However, the negative narrative continues into adulthood. I use therapy approaches and techniques that help clients re-author a different story about themselves, others and events that might have occurred. When this healing process occurs, I am inspired as a witness to my clients' transformation as they take steps from struggle to healing. I have been in practice for over 30 years and am a provider on all private insurance plans.
I specialize working with depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, parent-child conflict, substance abuse recovery, low-self-esteem, grief/loss, relationship problems and food addictions.
Everybody has a story. Often our stories about ourselves and others are formulated when we are very young, trying to make sense of what is going on around us. These stories are often untrue. However, the negative narrative continues into adulthood. I use therapy approaches and techniques that help clients re-author a different story about themselves, others and events that might have occurred. When this healing process occurs, I am inspired as a witness to my clients' transformation as they take steps from struggle to healing. I have been in practice for over 30 years and am a provider on all private insurance plans.
(503) 567-5701 View (503) 567-5701
Photo of Robbie Bahl in Portland, OR
Robbie Bahl
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
(503) 743-7966 View (503) 743-7966
Photo of Marilyn Pool, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Marilyn Pool
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
Effective therapy depends on a good client-therapist match. We'll work collaboratively to address relationship problems, life changes, losses, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelming emotions. My work is built on a foundation of compassion, pragmatism, and humor. We'll explore new perspectives, and experiment with tools for managing emotions, communicating effectively, and changing behaviors. We'll expand your capacity to cope with strong feelings and we'll deepen your sense of self.
Effective therapy depends on a good client-therapist match. We'll work collaboratively to address relationship problems, life changes, losses, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelming emotions. My work is built on a foundation of compassion, pragmatism, and humor. We'll explore new perspectives, and experiment with tools for managing emotions, communicating effectively, and changing behaviors. We'll expand your capacity to cope with strong feelings and we'll deepen your sense of self.
(503) 446-3071 View (503) 446-3071
Photo of Anthony Davis, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Anthony Davis
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I work with clients to reduce or eliminate the negative impact of social anxiety, depression, stress, loss, and trauma so you can lead a satisfying and productive life.
Are you struggling to balance the changing expectations placed on yourself? Finding that your behavior doesn’t match your intentions? Do demands for emotional intimacy leave you feeling confused and misunderstood? Has work become a place of negativity and resentment? We’re good at pretending that there’s nothing wrong until we just can’t take it anymore. What if you could step into being more confident and successful at work and in relationships?
I work with clients to reduce or eliminate the negative impact of social anxiety, depression, stress, loss, and trauma so you can lead a satisfying and productive life.
Are you struggling to balance the changing expectations placed on yourself? Finding that your behavior doesn’t match your intentions? Do demands for emotional intimacy leave you feeling confused and misunderstood? Has work become a place of negativity and resentment? We’re good at pretending that there’s nothing wrong until we just can’t take it anymore. What if you could step into being more confident and successful at work and in relationships?
(971) 293-2884 View (971) 293-2884
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
(503) 476-9855 View (503) 476-9855
Photo of Joyce Yuan, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Joyce Yuan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist interested in helping people alleviate their suffering, improve their relationships, and understand themselves better. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationships problems. I believe all people have positive potential that can sometimes be stifled and find it rewarding to help others work through their obstacles. I offer individual therapy and couples counseling and welcome clients of all ethnicities, genders, young adult through the elderly.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist interested in helping people alleviate their suffering, improve their relationships, and understand themselves better. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationships problems. I believe all people have positive potential that can sometimes be stifled and find it rewarding to help others work through their obstacles. I offer individual therapy and couples counseling and welcome clients of all ethnicities, genders, young adult through the elderly.
(347) 690-7505 View (347) 690-7505
Photo of Paul Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Paul Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I have been providing therapy to women and men and facilitating men's groups for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in helping people overcome depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and heal from childhood or domestic abuse. My approach is collaborative. I listen and understand my clients' perspective of the problem and potential solutions, while providing input based on my professional training and experience. I believe that the chances of making positive changes are enhanced by a combination of support, recognizing and utilizing one's strengths, and being challenged to try new approaches.
I have been providing therapy to women and men and facilitating men's groups for over 30 years. I have extensive experience in helping people overcome depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and heal from childhood or domestic abuse. My approach is collaborative. I listen and understand my clients' perspective of the problem and potential solutions, while providing input based on my professional training and experience. I believe that the chances of making positive changes are enhanced by a combination of support, recognizing and utilizing one's strengths, and being challenged to try new approaches.
(503) 822-6596 View (503) 822-6596
Photo of Robin L Magdahlen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Robin L Magdahlen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Positive Aging, Senior Life Transitions, Caregivers/Adult Children, Families - Adoption/Divorce/Blended Families, Divorce Coaching, Adult Adoptee/Birth Parent Reunification, Pre-Marital Counseling, EMDR, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Substance Abuse, Self Esteem/Personal Growth, Individual and Group Drama Therapy.
My intention for you is to gently but dynamically create opportunities for growth and healing through flexible and creative alternatives to break through old patterns. I like to collaborate with motivated clients who are willing to work to change their lives. My goal is to help you discover your own solutions to your problems and concerns in an environment that is welcoming, empathetic and non-judgmental. I do that by carefully attending to your thoughts and feelings. Although I will offer specific "interventions" I believe that change occurs during therapy when there is strong motivation combined with the quality of our connection.
Positive Aging, Senior Life Transitions, Caregivers/Adult Children, Families - Adoption/Divorce/Blended Families, Divorce Coaching, Adult Adoptee/Birth Parent Reunification, Pre-Marital Counseling, EMDR, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Crisis Intervention and Stabilization, Substance Abuse, Self Esteem/Personal Growth, Individual and Group Drama Therapy.
My intention for you is to gently but dynamically create opportunities for growth and healing through flexible and creative alternatives to break through old patterns. I like to collaborate with motivated clients who are willing to work to change their lives. My goal is to help you discover your own solutions to your problems and concerns in an environment that is welcoming, empathetic and non-judgmental. I do that by carefully attending to your thoughts and feelings. Although I will offer specific "interventions" I believe that change occurs during therapy when there is strong motivation combined with the quality of our connection.
(503) 766-5714 View (503) 766-5714
Photo of Dr. Richard Nalbandian, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Richard Nalbandian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
Richard Nalbandian, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist as works with individuals located in OR and MA. Dr. Nalbandian has experience working with adults from various backgrounds on issues including anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, relationship struggles, family conflict, and personality troubles. He completed his internship and post-doctoral residency in Massachusetts as a fellow at the Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute at Boston University. Dr. Nalbandian has focused training in and provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. His therapeutic style is collaborative and relational.
Richard Nalbandian, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist as works with individuals located in OR and MA. Dr. Nalbandian has experience working with adults from various backgrounds on issues including anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, relationship struggles, family conflict, and personality troubles. He completed his internship and post-doctoral residency in Massachusetts as a fellow at the Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute at Boston University. Dr. Nalbandian has focused training in and provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. His therapeutic style is collaborative and relational.
(971) 299-2882 View (971) 299-2882
Photo of Oregon Counseling, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Oregon Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266
Are you feeling stuck? Has depression, anxiety, or just life in general become overwhelming? Are you feeling frustrated in your work or social life? Perhaps you have survived trauma, grief, or loss. Whether from a recent event or a lifetime of distress, challenges like these can make coping a daily struggle. Our team of dedicated mental health professionals is available to help you manage the ups and downs associated with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and trauma. Oregon Counseling provides a welcoming, safe and nurturing environment focused on your care and personal growth.
Are you feeling stuck? Has depression, anxiety, or just life in general become overwhelming? Are you feeling frustrated in your work or social life? Perhaps you have survived trauma, grief, or loss. Whether from a recent event or a lifetime of distress, challenges like these can make coping a daily struggle. Our team of dedicated mental health professionals is available to help you manage the ups and downs associated with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and trauma. Oregon Counseling provides a welcoming, safe and nurturing environment focused on your care and personal growth.
(971) 319-9047 View (971) 319-9047
Photo of Natalie Di Francisco, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Natalie Di Francisco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
She is a wonderful practitioner who focuses on anxiety, depression, and stress.
I strive to create a warm and inviting relationship with my clients so that everyone in the room feels comfortable with being vulnerable. That takes patience and a delicate touch, but it is worth it! I would love to help you recognize your blind spots that might be inhibiting your growth.
She is a wonderful practitioner who focuses on anxiety, depression, and stress.
I strive to create a warm and inviting relationship with my clients so that everyone in the room feels comfortable with being vulnerable. That takes patience and a delicate touch, but it is worth it! I would love to help you recognize your blind spots that might be inhibiting your growth.
(503) 447-4729 View (503) 447-4729
Photo of Tiffany McCleary, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Tiffany McCleary
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I specialize in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, LGBTQ issues, and parenting challenges.
I integrate current research and traditional approaches to help clients reduce distress, improve daily functioning, and find fulfillment. Many clients I work with benefit from learning specific skills for stress management and interpersonal effectiveness. Others explore broader issues related to clarifying values and personal growth.
I specialize in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, LGBTQ issues, and parenting challenges.
I integrate current research and traditional approaches to help clients reduce distress, improve daily functioning, and find fulfillment. Many clients I work with benefit from learning specific skills for stress management and interpersonal effectiveness. Others explore broader issues related to clarifying values and personal growth.
(503) 894-5807 View (503) 894-5807
Photo of Andrea Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Andrea Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can profoundly impact your life, creating feelings of isolation and confusion. My practice is devoted to individuals seeking to understand and navigate these challenges. By exploring the intricacies of your experiences, we'll uncover the underlying causes of your feelings. Recognizing that understanding the 'why' behind your emotions is crucial, we delve into your past, particularly your family of origin, to identify patterns and sources of trauma, aiming to foster healing and growth.
Depression, anxiety, and relationship issues can profoundly impact your life, creating feelings of isolation and confusion. My practice is devoted to individuals seeking to understand and navigate these challenges. By exploring the intricacies of your experiences, we'll uncover the underlying causes of your feelings. Recognizing that understanding the 'why' behind your emotions is crucial, we delve into your past, particularly your family of origin, to identify patterns and sources of trauma, aiming to foster healing and growth.
(971) 290-6079 View (971) 290-6079
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.