Photo of Darci L Walker, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Darci L Walker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Depression, anxiety, conflict or life transitions can leave us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Therapy can, and should, be a safe and collaborative relationship where we work through the complications of life and relationships to find a more hopeful, rewarding and loving experience of the world. I want you to feel active in your therapy as we work toward gentle healing and personal growth. In addition to working with individuals, couples and families, I offer retreats, groups and am the co-creator of Her Table Wealth and Wellness which combines therapy with financial coaching to help women truly level up.
Depression, anxiety, conflict or life transitions can leave us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Therapy can, and should, be a safe and collaborative relationship where we work through the complications of life and relationships to find a more hopeful, rewarding and loving experience of the world. I want you to feel active in your therapy as we work toward gentle healing and personal growth. In addition to working with individuals, couples and families, I offer retreats, groups and am the co-creator of Her Table Wealth and Wellness which combines therapy with financial coaching to help women truly level up.
(503) 822-0964 View (503) 822-0964
Photo of Gary Moran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Gary Moran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
If you are feeling depressed, isolated, fearful of change in your relationships, I'm here to help you more fully connect with your emotions and live a more fulfilling life.
Do you feel alone in your relationships, or are you having difficulty connecting with others at all? Are you wanting to live a life of meaning and purpose, but don't know how to find it? If you are wanting better connections with those around you, and want to step into living a whole, healthy life, you don't need to suffer. I'd love to work with you. I especially enjoy working with male-identified clients who are highly motivated to take a risk and make a change in their lives. (Note: I am best reached via email.)
If you are feeling depressed, isolated, fearful of change in your relationships, I'm here to help you more fully connect with your emotions and live a more fulfilling life.
Do you feel alone in your relationships, or are you having difficulty connecting with others at all? Are you wanting to live a life of meaning and purpose, but don't know how to find it? If you are wanting better connections with those around you, and want to step into living a whole, healthy life, you don't need to suffer. I'd love to work with you. I especially enjoy working with male-identified clients who are highly motivated to take a risk and make a change in their lives. (Note: I am best reached via email.)
(971) 314-4870 View (971) 314-4870
Photo of Zoe Garbarini in Portland, OR
Zoe Garbarini
MSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Whether you are dealing with feeling stressed, alone, depressed, anxious, addicted, disconnected, or struggling within your relationship, it can change! A healthy integration of mind, brain and relationships enable you to feel open, connected, engaged, harmonious, compassionate, and energized.
Do you ever wonder, despite all your knowledge and efforts for growth that you still end up in a pattern of doing the same thing over and over again? Well, it's not your fault and there is a way to change it. When we are free to truly see and understand the connection to our brain, body, mind, and relationships, we can actually rewire our brains to build new neural pathways for new ways of thinking and being. Most of what we do, we have no idea why we do it; almost 85% is not on a conscious level.
Whether you are dealing with feeling stressed, alone, depressed, anxious, addicted, disconnected, or struggling within your relationship, it can change! A healthy integration of mind, brain and relationships enable you to feel open, connected, engaged, harmonious, compassionate, and energized.
Do you ever wonder, despite all your knowledge and efforts for growth that you still end up in a pattern of doing the same thing over and over again? Well, it's not your fault and there is a way to change it. When we are free to truly see and understand the connection to our brain, body, mind, and relationships, we can actually rewire our brains to build new neural pathways for new ways of thinking and being. Most of what we do, we have no idea why we do it; almost 85% is not on a conscious level.
(503) 405-4724 View (503) 405-4724
Photo of Roberto Olivero, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Roberto Olivero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
LGBTQ specialized. I am only available for in person sessions 6 months of the year, May through October. I conduct sessions on-line the remainder of the year. Morning appointments only, year round. Now in private practice, I was a practicing psychologist with the Men's Resource Center and Women's Counseling Center for over 25 years. I specialize in men's issues, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and relationships (including polyamorous). I also see women in my practice. I have a special interest in helping gay men and women, as I am gay identified myself. I conduct individual and couples' sessions.
LGBTQ specialized. I am only available for in person sessions 6 months of the year, May through October. I conduct sessions on-line the remainder of the year. Morning appointments only, year round. Now in private practice, I was a practicing psychologist with the Men's Resource Center and Women's Counseling Center for over 25 years. I specialize in men's issues, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and relationships (including polyamorous). I also see women in my practice. I have a special interest in helping gay men and women, as I am gay identified myself. I conduct individual and couples' sessions.
(971) 407-5657 View (971) 407-5657
Photo of Inner Works C.E.C, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Inner Works C.E.C, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
I aid individuals navigating diverse issues including anxiety, grief, work-related stress, relationship issues, depression, and trauma.
As a caring mental health therapist, I'm dedicated to assisting individuals in overcoming challenges and embracing their authentic selves. I firmly believe that you possess profound insights into your own life. My purpose is to partner with you, offering the necessary encouragement, validation, and guidance to achieve your aspirations. This entails fostering a secure therapeutic space where you can comfortably embark on your healing journey.
I aid individuals navigating diverse issues including anxiety, grief, work-related stress, relationship issues, depression, and trauma.
As a caring mental health therapist, I'm dedicated to assisting individuals in overcoming challenges and embracing their authentic selves. I firmly believe that you possess profound insights into your own life. My purpose is to partner with you, offering the necessary encouragement, validation, and guidance to achieve your aspirations. This entails fostering a secure therapeutic space where you can comfortably embark on your healing journey.
(971) 396-1830 View (971) 396-1830
Photo of Kathleen M Girod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kathleen M Girod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Therapy can offer hope in the midst of depression, anxiety, trauma, stressful challenges in work, relationships, health, or other arenas of life. It can also help us respond thoughtfully and creatively rather than anxiously or destructively. I am a firm believer in learning to be open towards yourself, your relationships, and life transitions. This is a more powerful motivator than mentally beating yourself up. We'll work together to identify strengths you can use towards making important life changes, and to build coping skills to deal with difficult emotions, trust, relationship issues, and negative thoughts you might have about yourself.
Therapy can offer hope in the midst of depression, anxiety, trauma, stressful challenges in work, relationships, health, or other arenas of life. It can also help us respond thoughtfully and creatively rather than anxiously or destructively. I am a firm believer in learning to be open towards yourself, your relationships, and life transitions. This is a more powerful motivator than mentally beating yourself up. We'll work together to identify strengths you can use towards making important life changes, and to build coping skills to deal with difficult emotions, trust, relationship issues, and negative thoughts you might have about yourself.
(503) 850-0229 View (503) 850-0229
Photo of Kimberlee Dennery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kimberlee Dennery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
(503) 300-5309 View (503) 300-5309
Photo of Mark Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Mark Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on empowering people affected by worries, depression, trauma, eating disorders, body image concerns, despair, confusion, loss, or relationship problems.
Confidence, connection, and clarity. Good therapy makes these qualities more available to you. With respectful attention, I offer help to meet personal challenges, strengthen relationships, and stand your ground. I aim to understand your concerns with sophistication and insight. I believe that vitality, purpose, and enjoyment can be a regular part of life.
I focus on empowering people affected by worries, depression, trauma, eating disorders, body image concerns, despair, confusion, loss, or relationship problems.
Confidence, connection, and clarity. Good therapy makes these qualities more available to you. With respectful attention, I offer help to meet personal challenges, strengthen relationships, and stand your ground. I aim to understand your concerns with sophistication and insight. I believe that vitality, purpose, and enjoyment can be a regular part of life.
(503) 985-6917 View (503) 985-6917
Photo of Siri Hoogen, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Siri Hoogen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Are you frustrated that you can't "snap out of it" when you feel depressed, anxious, or making the same mistakes over and over again? Maybe you have felt stuck for a long time, wondering what's wrong with you that you can't find your way out. But all of us of us get lost in our suffering sometimes, because when you're in the middle of it, it's hard to see the way through. I offer the outside perspective and collaboration you need to get unstuck, to help you find your way back to a full and satisfying life.
Are you frustrated that you can't "snap out of it" when you feel depressed, anxious, or making the same mistakes over and over again? Maybe you have felt stuck for a long time, wondering what's wrong with you that you can't find your way out. But all of us of us get lost in our suffering sometimes, because when you're in the middle of it, it's hard to see the way through. I offer the outside perspective and collaboration you need to get unstuck, to help you find your way back to a full and satisfying life.
(503) 298-6467 View (503) 298-6467
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 Daniel Combs, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Daniel Combs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with adults and adolescents who are experiencing a wide variety of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral problems, relationship conflict, and trauma recovery. In addition to individual work, I also provide family therapy and parenting consultation, when indicated, to support parents and promote healthy communication and interactions.
Welcome! I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with adults and adolescents who are experiencing a wide variety of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral problems, relationship conflict, and trauma recovery. In addition to individual work, I also provide family therapy and parenting consultation, when indicated, to support parents and promote healthy communication and interactions.
(503) 948-7013 View (503) 948-7013
Photo of Brian Whitmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Brian Whitmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I offer psychotherapy for teens and adults to locate deeper self-awareness and a clearer sense of purpose, authenticity, and connection. This approach can provide lasting benefit for anyone who is struggling with impacts of relational trauma, depression, anxiety, and other connected issues such as nightmares, procrastination, shame, feeling disconnected, etc. I can support you in moving safely through a process of healing the wounds underlying these experiences and guide you towards an earned inner sense of peace and an ability to create the life you want.
I offer psychotherapy for teens and adults to locate deeper self-awareness and a clearer sense of purpose, authenticity, and connection. This approach can provide lasting benefit for anyone who is struggling with impacts of relational trauma, depression, anxiety, and other connected issues such as nightmares, procrastination, shame, feeling disconnected, etc. I can support you in moving safely through a process of healing the wounds underlying these experiences and guide you towards an earned inner sense of peace and an ability to create the life you want.
(503) 447-7472 View (503) 447-7472
Photo of Jolie Krechman, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Jolie Krechman
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My practice consists of adults and older adolescents dealing with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, relationship concerns, divorce, parenting issues, childhood abuse, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and trauma.
Therapy is an opportunity for personal development in a safe, nonjudgmental, respectful, private, and supportive environment. It is natural to feel overwhelmed at times and it is not a sign of weak character to seek help. Through therapy we can learn to manage our emotions more effectively, improve our relationships and communication, bolster our confidence and self-esteem, and minimize our distress. In my work, I strive to create a comfortable environment in which I can assist clients in identifying thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and recurring patterns of behavior that may be impinging on the capacity to experience and create a fuller, more satisfying life.
My practice consists of adults and older adolescents dealing with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, relationship concerns, divorce, parenting issues, childhood abuse, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and trauma.
Therapy is an opportunity for personal development in a safe, nonjudgmental, respectful, private, and supportive environment. It is natural to feel overwhelmed at times and it is not a sign of weak character to seek help. Through therapy we can learn to manage our emotions more effectively, improve our relationships and communication, bolster our confidence and self-esteem, and minimize our distress. In my work, I strive to create a comfortable environment in which I can assist clients in identifying thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and recurring patterns of behavior that may be impinging on the capacity to experience and create a fuller, more satisfying life.
(503) 446-6135 View (503) 446-6135
Photo of Bailey Davidson, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Bailey Davidson
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Bailey has experience working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ages with anxiety, burnout, insomnia, depression, and trauma.
Bailey’s approach to counseling is grounded in Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma Theory. She is committed to cultivating a space of nonjudgement and acceptance, where paths towards positive change are forged together. Recognizing the role societal systems and external factors play in mental well-being, Bailey also incorporates a holistic view in her sessions.
Bailey has experience working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ages with anxiety, burnout, insomnia, depression, and trauma.
Bailey’s approach to counseling is grounded in Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma Theory. She is committed to cultivating a space of nonjudgement and acceptance, where paths towards positive change are forged together. Recognizing the role societal systems and external factors play in mental well-being, Bailey also incorporates a holistic view in her sessions.
(503) 974-3490 View (503) 974-3490
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 Christopher Lee Creaturo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Christopher Lee Creaturo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I work with clients to offer serious relief from the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety on their lives. Tools like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a judgement-free space to talk can bring hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and finally allow us to be present in our own lives again. Finding relief can feel like taking a first deep breath after being underwater for a long time, and that's an outcome worth fighting together for. Please email to learn more and find our if we make a good therapy team.
I work with clients to offer serious relief from the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety on their lives. Tools like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a judgement-free space to talk can bring hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and finally allow us to be present in our own lives again. Finding relief can feel like taking a first deep breath after being underwater for a long time, and that's an outcome worth fighting together for. Please email to learn more and find our if we make a good therapy team.
(458) 217-6034 View (458) 217-6034
Photo of Ryan Popkin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Ryan Popkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you’re facing life’s challenges, experiencing anxiety or depression, or you are just interested in growth and strengthening your sense of self; we all need a neutral person to talk to from time to time.
I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you’re facing life’s challenges, experiencing anxiety or depression, or you are just interested in growth and strengthening your sense of self; we all need a neutral person to talk to from time to time.
(971) 394-9249 View (971) 394-9249
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 Kierstin Leigh Oliver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kierstin Leigh Oliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, BFA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
I am client-centered, creative, and interested in a holistic approach to therapy. I work to support individuals coping with: depression, anxiety, women's issues, trauma, and relational issues. I am connected to issues faced by the LGBTQ community. As a mother and an artist, I enjoy working with other creatives and parents. I offer traditional talk therapy, and 'walk & talk' therapy in Portland, Oregon. To learn more about the way I work please visit kierstinolivercounseling.com. I believe in nature as co-therapist, and try to get outside with clients when possible. You get to design your life, I am happy to help with the process.
I am client-centered, creative, and interested in a holistic approach to therapy. I work to support individuals coping with: depression, anxiety, women's issues, trauma, and relational issues. I am connected to issues faced by the LGBTQ community. As a mother and an artist, I enjoy working with other creatives and parents. I offer traditional talk therapy, and 'walk & talk' therapy in Portland, Oregon. To learn more about the way I work please visit kierstinolivercounseling.com. I believe in nature as co-therapist, and try to get outside with clients when possible. You get to design your life, I am happy to help with the process.
(503) 300-2980 View (503) 300-2980
Photo of Dan Rubin, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dan Rubin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I also work with people who suffer from anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, relationship distress, PTSD, and grief.
My approach to therapy is based on mindfulness and self-compassion. Mindfulness teaches us how to be present and self-compassion teaches how to be a friend and ally to ourselves no matter what. I offer a warm and safe relationship, good old fashioned listening, and skills to improve effective communication, managing and learning from emotions, self-acceptance, compassion, and connecting with and living your values. Mindfulness-based therapy is practical, evidence-based, and it works. You don't have to be stuck, overwhelmed, or feel disconnected from your life. You can make positive changes, heal, grow, and thrive.
I also work with people who suffer from anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, relationship distress, PTSD, and grief.
My approach to therapy is based on mindfulness and self-compassion. Mindfulness teaches us how to be present and self-compassion teaches how to be a friend and ally to ourselves no matter what. I offer a warm and safe relationship, good old fashioned listening, and skills to improve effective communication, managing and learning from emotions, self-acceptance, compassion, and connecting with and living your values. Mindfulness-based therapy is practical, evidence-based, and it works. You don't have to be stuck, overwhelmed, or feel disconnected from your life. You can make positive changes, heal, grow, and thrive.
(503) 894-3068 View (503) 894-3068

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.