Depression Therapists in Newberry, SC

Photo of Dallas W. Kuhn, MRC, LPC, AADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dallas W. Kuhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, AADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newberry, SC 29108
Feeling stuck, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, and misunderstood? Does your life lack meaning and purpose? Are you struggling with substance abuse, alcohol, or other addictions and feel your life is out of control? Are you not living the life you want? I know how you feel, and I can help. Our journey in life can sometimes be difficult, frightening, and painful. However, it’s through these moments that we find opportunity for our greatest growth, to become our genuine self, who we are meant to be.
Feeling stuck, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, and misunderstood? Does your life lack meaning and purpose? Are you struggling with substance abuse, alcohol, or other addictions and feel your life is out of control? Are you not living the life you want? I know how you feel, and I can help. Our journey in life can sometimes be difficult, frightening, and painful. However, it’s through these moments that we find opportunity for our greatest growth, to become our genuine self, who we are meant to be.
(803) 310-2890 View (803) 310-2890
Photo of Sherry L Mauritzen, MS, CAADC, AADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Sherry L Mauritzen
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CAADC, AADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberry, SC 29108
Counseling is online, certified in Illinois CAADC and South Carolina AADC, so its flexible, easy access, safe and in the privacy of your own home. We can do a phone or free video chat consultation and answer all your questions. As a therapist, I am compassionate and believe in being genuine and mindful with clients. Supporting and working with clients that struggle from situational issues needing help with developing healthier coping skills to long term symptoms with anxiety, depression, grief and/or addictions.
Counseling is online, certified in Illinois CAADC and South Carolina AADC, so its flexible, easy access, safe and in the privacy of your own home. We can do a phone or free video chat consultation and answer all your questions. As a therapist, I am compassionate and believe in being genuine and mindful with clients. Supporting and working with clients that struggle from situational issues needing help with developing healthier coping skills to long term symptoms with anxiety, depression, grief and/or addictions.
(864) 351-3215 View (864) 351-3215
Photo of Sylvester Kerry Suber, MA, LPC, LPC/S-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sylvester Kerry Suber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC/S-C
Verified Verified
Newberry, SC 29108
As a counselor, coach, and teacher I have always had a focus on making interventions for positive change for adults, families, and children. In my experience key elements can be provided to promote quality life skills. In some instances the client may have issues regarding traumatic events, depression, anxiety, grief, lack of self-esteem/confidence, addictions, decision making skills, and finally abuse of a physical and emotional nature. Therapy can provide aspirations and tools that can promote positive change along with resilience for maintaining a good quality of life.
As a counselor, coach, and teacher I have always had a focus on making interventions for positive change for adults, families, and children. In my experience key elements can be provided to promote quality life skills. In some instances the client may have issues regarding traumatic events, depression, anxiety, grief, lack of self-esteem/confidence, addictions, decision making skills, and finally abuse of a physical and emotional nature. Therapy can provide aspirations and tools that can promote positive change along with resilience for maintaining a good quality of life.
(803) 592-3912 View (803) 592-3912
Photo of Doris Harrison - Angels Mental Health Counseling Services ,LLC, MA, BA, C-ASDCS, CAIP, C-IMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angels Mental Health Counseling Services ,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BA, C-ASDCS, CAIP, C-IMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newberry, SC 29108  (Online Only)
I am a License Professional Counselor. My background consists of developmental-behavioral mod in autism spectrum disorder and other related disorders. I am a seasoned 24 year specialist trained and experience in counseling with a specialty in mental health, developmental disabilities and family therapy. I am a member of Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professionals. I am an appointed member of the S.C. Notary Public. I offer tele-mental health services.My aim is to foster the understanding of healthy living with a healthy mindset. My counseling approach is research evidence based using a modality of eclectic therapies.
I am a License Professional Counselor. My background consists of developmental-behavioral mod in autism spectrum disorder and other related disorders. I am a seasoned 24 year specialist trained and experience in counseling with a specialty in mental health, developmental disabilities and family therapy. I am a member of Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professionals. I am an appointed member of the S.C. Notary Public. I offer tele-mental health services.My aim is to foster the understanding of healthy living with a healthy mindset. My counseling approach is research evidence based using a modality of eclectic therapies.
(803) 741-5354 View (803) 741-5354
Photo of Rebecca D Hegwood, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca D Hegwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberry, SC 29108  (Online Only)
We've all heard the saying "life is beautiful", and while this is so often the case, life can also feel overwhelming, frustrating, and scary at times. It's during these times that we often find ourselves at a crossroads, feeling confused and stuck. If this is where you currently find yourself, wondering which path to choose or just how to begin to feel better emotionally so that you can take the next step, I would love to accompany you on your journey to increased life balance and clarity for the future.
We've all heard the saying "life is beautiful", and while this is so often the case, life can also feel overwhelming, frustrating, and scary at times. It's during these times that we often find ourselves at a crossroads, feeling confused and stuck. If this is where you currently find yourself, wondering which path to choose or just how to begin to feel better emotionally so that you can take the next step, I would love to accompany you on your journey to increased life balance and clarity for the future.
(864) 251-5600 View (864) 251-5600
Photo of Zeta Hastings - Zeta Hastings Counseling, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zeta Hastings Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Newberry, SC 29108
I get it. You want to be seen-instead of feeling as if no one "gets it". Most days, you're trying to quiet that tiny voice in your head that tells you all the things that could wrong. Maybe some days you just don't have the energy to even pretend anymore. It's hard to try and hold it all together on the outside, when inside is barely hanging on. But here you are-reading this and looking for someone who will understand. You are worth more than what those anxious or negative thoughts tell you.
I get it. You want to be seen-instead of feeling as if no one "gets it". Most days, you're trying to quiet that tiny voice in your head that tells you all the things that could wrong. Maybe some days you just don't have the energy to even pretend anymore. It's hard to try and hold it all together on the outside, when inside is barely hanging on. But here you are-reading this and looking for someone who will understand. You are worth more than what those anxious or negative thoughts tell you.
(803) 991-7583 View (803) 991-7583
Photo of Jill L. McHugh, LISW-CP, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill L. McHugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LMSW
Verified Verified
Newberry, SC 29108  (Online Only)
Stressed out, trying to balance all that life throws at you while making time for self-care, parenting struggles, job challenges, grief, and more - people pursue therapy for a variety of reasons, but the important thing is that they pursue it and take the first step! I work mainly with motivated adults in leadership roles who want balance, fulfillment, support, guidance, stress management, and strategies to help move through challenges and achieve positive change. I'm direct yet compassionate and nonjudgemental. Therapy is an investment, and I am honored to work with you. I own a private practice - jlmchugh.com. Reach out today!
Stressed out, trying to balance all that life throws at you while making time for self-care, parenting struggles, job challenges, grief, and more - people pursue therapy for a variety of reasons, but the important thing is that they pursue it and take the first step! I work mainly with motivated adults in leadership roles who want balance, fulfillment, support, guidance, stress management, and strategies to help move through challenges and achieve positive change. I'm direct yet compassionate and nonjudgemental. Therapy is an investment, and I am honored to work with you. I own a private practice - jlmchugh.com. Reach out today!
(803) 291-4420 View (803) 291-4420
Photo of Brittany Harrison, MEd, LPC, LPCS-C, CDF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LPCS-C, CDF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberry, SC 29108
Are you overwhelmed? Do you feel helpless? Questioning your self worth? Do you have trouble trusting others? Are you ready to transform ? I have over 10 years of experience in mental health, education, and behavior intervention .
Are you overwhelmed? Do you feel helpless? Questioning your self worth? Do you have trouble trusting others? Are you ready to transform ? I have over 10 years of experience in mental health, education, and behavior intervention .
(803) 266-1263 View (803) 266-1263

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Mari Bloing-Hart, PhD, LMSW
Dr. Mari Bloing-Hart
Master Social Worker, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, SC 29072
My Strengths include, but are not limited to: Cognitive Disorders Depression Women's Issues Marital/Relationship Issues Hypnosis (HypnoBehavioral Therapy) EMDR Alternative LifeStyle Issues Issues Treated : Addictions Adolescent Alternative Lifestyles Anger Management Anxiety/Panic Children Codependency Crisis Counseling Depression DID Divorce Counseling Eating Disorders Family Forensics Gay/Lesbian Grief/Loss Issues Of Abuse Mens Issues.
I understand how important emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health are for each of us, and I am dedicated to the process and journey to see that this is accomplished to the best of my abilities. I have been a practicing therapist for over 30 years. I have a breadth of training and experience.I am ethical,promoting high professional standards. I am caring and thorough, with a significant amount of compassion. My style is somewhat straight-forward, and I tend to tell it like I see it, hoping to help people move forward in a positive, but short term way.
My Strengths include, but are not limited to: Cognitive Disorders Depression Women's Issues Marital/Relationship Issues Hypnosis (HypnoBehavioral Therapy) EMDR Alternative LifeStyle Issues Issues Treated : Addictions Adolescent Alternative Lifestyles Anger Management Anxiety/Panic Children Codependency Crisis Counseling Depression DID Divorce Counseling Eating Disorders Family Forensics Gay/Lesbian Grief/Loss Issues Of Abuse Mens Issues.
I understand how important emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health are for each of us, and I am dedicated to the process and journey to see that this is accomplished to the best of my abilities. I have been a practicing therapist for over 30 years. I have a breadth of training and experience.I am ethical,promoting high professional standards. I am caring and thorough, with a significant amount of compassion. My style is somewhat straight-forward, and I tend to tell it like I see it, hoping to help people move forward in a positive, but short term way.
(803) 596-0173 View (803) 596-0173
Photo of Kathleen Horn, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
Kathleen Horn is a Licensed Master Social Worker who has a love for dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). She is passionate about helping people and reducing mental health stigma and feels that DBT is a great tool to have in anyone's toolbox. Kathleen has experience helping those experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, life transitions, and borderline personality disorder. Kathleen completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Maryland School of Social Work after first pursuing and falling in love with social work at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Kathleen Horn is a Licensed Master Social Worker who has a love for dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). She is passionate about helping people and reducing mental health stigma and feels that DBT is a great tool to have in anyone's toolbox. Kathleen has experience helping those experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, life transitions, and borderline personality disorder. Kathleen completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Maryland School of Social Work after first pursuing and falling in love with social work at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
(864) 756-3223 View (864) 756-3223
Photo of Stephanie A Alford - Gemini Counseling Services, LLC, EdS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, BCTMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gemini Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, BCTMH
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29804  (Online Only)
Our specialities are: ADHD, Anxiety ,Career Counseling, Depression, Emotional Support Animal Coaching, Life Coaching, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem and Trauma.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. We can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Our specialities are: ADHD, Anxiety ,Career Counseling, Depression, Emotional Support Animal Coaching, Life Coaching, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem and Trauma.
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. We can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing. Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
(803) 592-3322 View (803) 592-3322
Photo of Jennifer Kittredge, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Kittredge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I've worked with clients of all ages who have experienced struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and trust issues - to name a few.
Life is messy. You're stuck and scouring the internet for therapists out of desperate hope that things can be better. You can't get out of your head, the same thoughts keep playing on repeat - you don't want things to stay this way. You just want to feel happy again, engage with life the way you want to, and I'm here to help you move past the hurdles you're facing. We'll work to identify patterns that are keeping you stuck so we can figure out what’s working for you, what isn’t, and how you want things to be different. I’ll provide accountable and compassionate care as we search for the solutions you're looking for together.
I've worked with clients of all ages who have experienced struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and trust issues - to name a few.
Life is messy. You're stuck and scouring the internet for therapists out of desperate hope that things can be better. You can't get out of your head, the same thoughts keep playing on repeat - you don't want things to stay this way. You just want to feel happy again, engage with life the way you want to, and I'm here to help you move past the hurdles you're facing. We'll work to identify patterns that are keeping you stuck so we can figure out what’s working for you, what isn’t, and how you want things to be different. I’ll provide accountable and compassionate care as we search for the solutions you're looking for together.
(864) 239-4110 View (864) 239-4110
Photo of Dr. Iris P. Coleman, DSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Iris P. Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29223
As your therapist I will work with you to help strengthen areas that you rely on to achieve your optimal mental and emotional health. I work with issues of anxiety and depression, relationships, grief, life transitions, the effects of trauma and abuse.
As your therapist I will work with you to help strengthen areas that you rely on to achieve your optimal mental and emotional health. I work with issues of anxiety and depression, relationships, grief, life transitions, the effects of trauma and abuse.
(803) 674-4772 View (803) 674-4772
Photo of Lauren C Kittrell, MA, LPC
Lauren C Kittrell
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Travelers Rest, SC 29690
I offer help for clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, and the like.
Do you ever feel stuck? Do you ever feel weighed down by a present situation or past hurts? Perhaps you've struggled with depression, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts for years but things have gotten worse and you're ready to take that first step towards help. I consider it an honor to be allowed to sit with someone in their pain and help them find a healthy way through the pain towards healing. I am especially passionate about OCD, relationship work, and depressive disorders, but I see a variety of clients with differing needs. I would love to hear from you about how I might be able to help you through your current challenges.
I offer help for clients who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, trauma, and the like.
Do you ever feel stuck? Do you ever feel weighed down by a present situation or past hurts? Perhaps you've struggled with depression, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts for years but things have gotten worse and you're ready to take that first step towards help. I consider it an honor to be allowed to sit with someone in their pain and help them find a healthy way through the pain towards healing. I am especially passionate about OCD, relationship work, and depressive disorders, but I see a variety of clients with differing needs. I would love to hear from you about how I might be able to help you through your current challenges.
(864) 635-4954 View (864) 635-4954
Photo of Turkessa D. Allen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turkessa D. Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29652  (Online Only)
Being able to manage every area of our lives is far from easy. In fact, it can be challenging & make you feel unsure of yourself. It can become overwhelming to feel that you have so much to do, all at one time. Are you ready for change? Are you tired of being frustrated or feeling stuck? I want to help you recognize that you don't have to do it all alone, & that you have what it takes to reach your desired goals or outcome. I empower individuals with effectively managing the following, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Self-esteem, Stress, Coping Skills, Occupational Stress, Family issues, and more. Contact me today.
Being able to manage every area of our lives is far from easy. In fact, it can be challenging & make you feel unsure of yourself. It can become overwhelming to feel that you have so much to do, all at one time. Are you ready for change? Are you tired of being frustrated or feeling stuck? I want to help you recognize that you don't have to do it all alone, & that you have what it takes to reach your desired goals or outcome. I empower individuals with effectively managing the following, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Self-esteem, Stress, Coping Skills, Occupational Stress, Family issues, and more. Contact me today.
(864) 754-0788 View (864) 754-0788
Photo of Kaz Sortino, MS, LPC-A
Kaz Sortino
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Manning, SC 29102  (Online Only)
I have Unique experience working in the areas of anxiety, depression, emotional regulation and communication as well as with PTSD.
Degrees and professional experience are important, but what's more important is finding the right fit for your counselor. I am a believer that a healthy counseling relationship is key to therapeutic progress. I believe that laughter can at times, be an important part of progress and healing. People often think that counseling has to be stuffy or serious, but if that's not who you are, you may find it does not lead you to progress. I try to create a therapeutic space that allows people to share openly and honestly. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and that you have the ability to make progress towards your goals.
I have Unique experience working in the areas of anxiety, depression, emotional regulation and communication as well as with PTSD.
Degrees and professional experience are important, but what's more important is finding the right fit for your counselor. I am a believer that a healthy counseling relationship is key to therapeutic progress. I believe that laughter can at times, be an important part of progress and healing. People often think that counseling has to be stuffy or serious, but if that's not who you are, you may find it does not lead you to progress. I try to create a therapeutic space that allows people to share openly and honestly. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and that you have the ability to make progress towards your goals.
(803) 575-3328 View (803) 575-3328
Photo of Matthew Doyle, MEd, LPCA
Matthew Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPCA
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29730  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy services designed to assist youth and adults with the following, but not limited to, issues: Depression; Anxiety; Adjustment to changes in family relationships or structure; Environmental and educational stressors; Difficulties in peer/family relationships; Divorce; Problems with mood regulation, such as anger; Spirituality issues.
If you feel stuck in some way, I want to help you discover a safe place to explore more deeply who you are, so that you can move forward again. Educating yourself about who you are physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually are crucial for better well-being. Working on and actively participating in your own treatment will be essential if you choose to work with me. Helping me understand who you truly are, including your feelings, memories, and goals will help set a basis of trust from which you can make positive changes.
I offer individual therapy services designed to assist youth and adults with the following, but not limited to, issues: Depression; Anxiety; Adjustment to changes in family relationships or structure; Environmental and educational stressors; Difficulties in peer/family relationships; Divorce; Problems with mood regulation, such as anger; Spirituality issues.
If you feel stuck in some way, I want to help you discover a safe place to explore more deeply who you are, so that you can move forward again. Educating yourself about who you are physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually are crucial for better well-being. Working on and actively participating in your own treatment will be essential if you choose to work with me. Helping me understand who you truly are, including your feelings, memories, and goals will help set a basis of trust from which you can make positive changes.
(803) 759-8929 View (803) 759-8929
Photo of Chelsey Klein, NCC, LPCC, LCPC, CADC-In, LPC, Counselor
Chelsey Klein
Counselor, NCC, LPCC, LCPC, CADC-In, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29211  (Online Only)
Trained in several complementary approaches to treating anxiety, depression, trauma, I utilize evidenced based therapeutic methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and parts work.
Does each day seem to be a challenge and you feel you are just surviving? Maybe you are carrying the weight of the past or others expectations. I can offer a safe space to process and internally resolve the heaviness of everyday life with unconditional positive regard as well as tools to manage daily stressors using a bottom up approach that will include coping skills and trauma processing to help resolve the internal processes that cause difficulty in every day life.
Trained in several complementary approaches to treating anxiety, depression, trauma, I utilize evidenced based therapeutic methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and parts work.
Does each day seem to be a challenge and you feel you are just surviving? Maybe you are carrying the weight of the past or others expectations. I can offer a safe space to process and internally resolve the heaviness of everyday life with unconditional positive regard as well as tools to manage daily stressors using a bottom up approach that will include coping skills and trauma processing to help resolve the internal processes that cause difficulty in every day life.
(575) 825-7206 View (575) 825-7206
Photo of Deborah Marion, LMHC, LPC, CASAC-T, Counselor
Deborah Marion
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aiken, SC 29803  (Online Only)
"What people really need is a good listening to." --Mary Lou Casey. In these "chaotic" times more than ever, I see clients who are struggling to deal with added uncertainty on top of the usual difficulties of life! This stress, in the form of disrupted relationships, family and parenting concerns, and financial/job concerns, contributes to more anxiety, anger, depression, substance use. I like to offer clients a safe, productive space in which to feel comfortable to explore and develop some strategies to move in a positive direction. I strive to develop a good "working" relationship, built on mutual regard and respect.
"What people really need is a good listening to." --Mary Lou Casey. In these "chaotic" times more than ever, I see clients who are struggling to deal with added uncertainty on top of the usual difficulties of life! This stress, in the form of disrupted relationships, family and parenting concerns, and financial/job concerns, contributes to more anxiety, anger, depression, substance use. I like to offer clients a safe, productive space in which to feel comfortable to explore and develop some strategies to move in a positive direction. I strive to develop a good "working" relationship, built on mutual regard and respect.
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Photo of Shelly L Atkinson, LPC/S-C, LAC-A, AADC, CS-IP, Counselor
Shelly L Atkinson
Counselor, LPC/S-C, LAC-A, AADC, CS-IP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simpsonville, SC 29681
Hi! I am Shelly! I am so excited to be here and to have the opportunity to serve you! I am a practicing LPC in the Upstate of SC. I find absolute pleasure in working with clients who are in need of someone coming alongside them for guidance with concerns ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use issues and much more. Some potential clients like yourself may just need a listening ear, life coaching or guidance with developing healthy, appropriate skills to navigate life and managing the range of emotions that come along with that. Call or email me to discuss your particular needs. Telehealth services are available.
Hi! I am Shelly! I am so excited to be here and to have the opportunity to serve you! I am a practicing LPC in the Upstate of SC. I find absolute pleasure in working with clients who are in need of someone coming alongside them for guidance with concerns ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use issues and much more. Some potential clients like yourself may just need a listening ear, life coaching or guidance with developing healthy, appropriate skills to navigate life and managing the range of emotions that come along with that. Call or email me to discuss your particular needs. Telehealth services are available.
(864) 778-3033 View (864) 778-3033

See more therapy options for Newberry

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.