Depression Therapists in Tennessee

Photo of Pamela Carpenter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
I specialize in working with issues of grief and loss, aging, trauma, life transition, and mood disorders, such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders.
Life is filled with change. Oftentimes, we have to confront things we never expected. Sometimes, we are faced with overwhelming situations, such as loss or trauma, and we need someone to walk alongside us. But for all of us, there are times we know we want our lives to be different, but we may be unsure how to make changes. Perhaps, our moods or feelings seem to command our choices, or perhaps we just don't know what steps to take first. Therapy is an opportunity for us to pursue desired changes with the assistance that can help us achieve our goals.
I specialize in working with issues of grief and loss, aging, trauma, life transition, and mood disorders, such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders.
Life is filled with change. Oftentimes, we have to confront things we never expected. Sometimes, we are faced with overwhelming situations, such as loss or trauma, and we need someone to walk alongside us. But for all of us, there are times we know we want our lives to be different, but we may be unsure how to make changes. Perhaps, our moods or feelings seem to command our choices, or perhaps we just don't know what steps to take first. Therapy is an opportunity for us to pursue desired changes with the assistance that can help us achieve our goals.
(865) 551-6113 View (865) 551-6113
Photo of Sheila L Taylor, LPC, MHSP, SP, C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheila L Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, SP, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, TN 37167  (Online Only)
YOU CAN... reach your full potential, increase skills to navigate and cope with life stressors, address mental health and other challenges and establish a healthier, happier you. Are you struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss or life transition struggles? I can help. My experience includes working with clients of various cultures, races, religions, socio-economic statuses and sexual orientations. Beyond mental health therapy, I am experienced in adoptions counseling, premarital counseling, pastoral support, blended family counseling, prison reentry counseling as well as group counseling.
YOU CAN... reach your full potential, increase skills to navigate and cope with life stressors, address mental health and other challenges and establish a healthier, happier you. Are you struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss or life transition struggles? I can help. My experience includes working with clients of various cultures, races, religions, socio-economic statuses and sexual orientations. Beyond mental health therapy, I am experienced in adoptions counseling, premarital counseling, pastoral support, blended family counseling, prison reentry counseling as well as group counseling.
(615) 802-5289 View (615) 802-5289
Photo of Nicole M. Webb, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole M. Webb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Hickory, TN 37138  (Online Only)
Now Accepting Aetna Insurance and offering Evening & Weekend Appointments > Have you ever wondered what a psychologist does? Broadly, psychologists help individuals improve emotional, physical, and social functioning. A psychologist might help a client with 1) depression, anxiety, anger, or insomnia 2) a chronic medical/physical condition negatively impacting functioning, or 3) managing acute stress/adjustment related to divorce, retirement, or the death of a loved one. Support, psychoeducation, a fresh perspective, and improved coping skills can help you better manage and overcome factors interfering with your quality of life.
Now Accepting Aetna Insurance and offering Evening & Weekend Appointments > Have you ever wondered what a psychologist does? Broadly, psychologists help individuals improve emotional, physical, and social functioning. A psychologist might help a client with 1) depression, anxiety, anger, or insomnia 2) a chronic medical/physical condition negatively impacting functioning, or 3) managing acute stress/adjustment related to divorce, retirement, or the death of a loved one. Support, psychoeducation, a fresh perspective, and improved coping skills can help you better manage and overcome factors interfering with your quality of life.
View
Photo of Juliana Breeden, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Juliana Breeden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My interests include depression, anxiety, couples therapy, self esteem issues, spirituality, and trauma.
Hello! My name is Juliana and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Nashville, TN, where I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I am passionate about bringing hope into the lives of those with mental health issues and distress in their relationships. Whether a life transition has you feeling anxious and unsteady, or relationship problems are all consuming, I am committed to creating a safe space for you to process and explore your thoughts and emotions. It is possible to reframe and rewrite the stories that become our reality, and I am here to help with that revision process.
My interests include depression, anxiety, couples therapy, self esteem issues, spirituality, and trauma.
Hello! My name is Juliana and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Nashville, TN, where I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I am passionate about bringing hope into the lives of those with mental health issues and distress in their relationships. Whether a life transition has you feeling anxious and unsteady, or relationship problems are all consuming, I am committed to creating a safe space for you to process and explore your thoughts and emotions. It is possible to reframe and rewrite the stories that become our reality, and I am here to help with that revision process.
(615) 392-3698 View (615) 392-3698
Photo of Alyssa Clements, PhD, Psychologist
Alyssa Clements
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212  (Online Only)
My goal is to provide a warm and personalized approach to therapy. I'm here to listen and work with you, adapting my methods to your unique journey. I specialize in helping adults, particularly those in early adulthood to navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, perfectionism, and major life transitions. My focus is on creating a safe and empathetic space where we can explore and address your needs together.
My goal is to provide a warm and personalized approach to therapy. I'm here to listen and work with you, adapting my methods to your unique journey. I specialize in helping adults, particularly those in early adulthood to navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, perfectionism, and major life transitions. My focus is on creating a safe and empathetic space where we can explore and address your needs together.
(629) 284-2764 View (629) 284-2764
Photo of Samantha Acosta, LIMHP, LMFT, MA, Counselor
Samantha Acosta
Counselor, LIMHP, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128  (Online Only)
I wonder if you are feeling like life has been particularly difficult lately? This is especially difficult when we are feeling excessive stress, a sense of overwhelm, anxious, depressed, lonely and isolated.
I wonder if you are feeling like life has been particularly difficult lately? This is especially difficult when we are feeling excessive stress, a sense of overwhelm, anxious, depressed, lonely and isolated.
(629) 263-4339 View (629) 263-4339
Photo of Patrick Joseph Michaels, PhD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Patrick Joseph Michaels
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I specialize in delivering highly effective evidence-based treatments for a range of complex and chronic mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, and trauma.
When is the last time you laughed? Does life feel colorless or bland? Depression, anxiety, or trauma can steal away your vibrance and connection with yourself and others. Life is best lived in full color, with meaning and joy. As a therapist, my goal is to help you love your life again. I've specialized in treating chronic depression and severe mental health conditions with success defined as improved relationships, self-acceptance, and re-engagement in meaningful activities. Through genuine collaboration, we will add vibrance to your life. My therapeutic style is relational and embraces our common humanity.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I specialize in delivering highly effective evidence-based treatments for a range of complex and chronic mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, psychosis, substance abuse, and trauma.
When is the last time you laughed? Does life feel colorless or bland? Depression, anxiety, or trauma can steal away your vibrance and connection with yourself and others. Life is best lived in full color, with meaning and joy. As a therapist, my goal is to help you love your life again. I've specialized in treating chronic depression and severe mental health conditions with success defined as improved relationships, self-acceptance, and re-engagement in meaningful activities. Through genuine collaboration, we will add vibrance to your life. My therapeutic style is relational and embraces our common humanity.
(615) 912-3545 View (615) 912-3545
Photo of Kim Van Buskirk, LMFT, CPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Van Buskirk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CPT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have 9 years of experience supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression and the societal difficulties we are faced with on a daily basis.
Welcome to a new experience of combined self-care! Group therapy is an opportunity to find support and community while processing common issues of anxiety, depression and social/societal challenges. This is an opportunity for you to find commonalities with others and not feel alone in the process of exploring difficult topics. The wonderful aspect of group therapy is learning from others, developing new perspectives and enhancing your perspective/understanding of your experience. The group exercise portion will allow you the opportunity to address your physical well-being in a safe and judgment free environment.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have 9 years of experience supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression and the societal difficulties we are faced with on a daily basis.
Welcome to a new experience of combined self-care! Group therapy is an opportunity to find support and community while processing common issues of anxiety, depression and social/societal challenges. This is an opportunity for you to find commonalities with others and not feel alone in the process of exploring difficult topics. The wonderful aspect of group therapy is learning from others, developing new perspectives and enhancing your perspective/understanding of your experience. The group exercise portion will allow you the opportunity to address your physical well-being in a safe and judgment free environment.
(629) 268-3270 View (629) 268-3270
Photo of Melissa Bonner, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Bonner
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37208  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use issues.
As a therapist, I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. My approach is empathetic and client-centered, recognizing that each journey is unique and requires a tailored approach. I integrate evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and ACT with creative therapies like Art Therapy, addressing both emotional and practical aspects of your mental health. I’m here to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and work towards lasting, meaningful change.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use issues.
As a therapist, I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. My approach is empathetic and client-centered, recognizing that each journey is unique and requires a tailored approach. I integrate evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and ACT with creative therapies like Art Therapy, addressing both emotional and practical aspects of your mental health. I’m here to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and work towards lasting, meaningful change.
(629) 348-3717 View (629) 348-3717
Photo of Diana Glasser, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Glasser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White House, TN 37188  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a counselor is to empower you to become confident, strong, and connected with yourself and others. I work with individuals to address issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma. With my background in health and nutrition as well as mental health, I am attuned to both emotional and physical distress. Together we will seek to develop the whole you, including your mental, emotional and physical self. We will find the puzzle pieces of the story your body shares with us. From day one, we will work tirelessly on achieving your therapeutic goals.
My goal as a counselor is to empower you to become confident, strong, and connected with yourself and others. I work with individuals to address issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma. With my background in health and nutrition as well as mental health, I am attuned to both emotional and physical distress. Together we will seek to develop the whole you, including your mental, emotional and physical self. We will find the puzzle pieces of the story your body shares with us. From day one, we will work tirelessly on achieving your therapeutic goals.
(615) 265-1073 View (615) 265-1073
Photo of La'Joya McDonald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
La'Joya McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Certified Social Work based in Arkansas however licensed in various states. I received my Bachelors and Masters from the Arkansas State University and have been practicing for 9 years. I help many individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, life transitions, boundaries, women’s issues, relationship issues, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Certified Social Work based in Arkansas however licensed in various states. I received my Bachelors and Masters from the Arkansas State University and have been practicing for 9 years. I help many individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief, life transitions, boundaries, women’s issues, relationship issues, career stress, and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
(629) 276-6305 View (629) 276-6305
Photo of Amy L Bohannan, MS, NCC, BCBA, LBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy L Bohannan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
I work with a variety of different presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, intrapersonal and interpersonal struggles, and stress management. My clinical interests are in family of origin, attachment issues, and working with athletes. I work from a psychodynamic, person-centered approach and integrate different modalities based on individual need to meet you where you are at to help facilitate change and reach your goals. Through building a compassionate, authentic, and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship, my clients can feel safe and vulnerable to discuss their deepest struggles.
I work with a variety of different presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, intrapersonal and interpersonal struggles, and stress management. My clinical interests are in family of origin, attachment issues, and working with athletes. I work from a psychodynamic, person-centered approach and integrate different modalities based on individual need to meet you where you are at to help facilitate change and reach your goals. Through building a compassionate, authentic, and non-judgmental therapeutic relationship, my clients can feel safe and vulnerable to discuss their deepest struggles.
(901) 459-5834 View (901) 459-5834
Photo of Rosamond Pamela McLeod - New Path Counseling & Consulting PLLC., MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Path Counseling & Consulting PLLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37217
As a solution focused therapist, my goal is to empower you to find your own strengths. My approach to therapy is to assist you to heal from past wounds and cope with current issues in nurturing and non-judgmental manner. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with many types of disorders - including learning difficulties, Attention Deficit Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Marital/Relationship problems, Anxiety, and Depression.
As a solution focused therapist, my goal is to empower you to find your own strengths. My approach to therapy is to assist you to heal from past wounds and cope with current issues in nurturing and non-judgmental manner. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with many types of disorders - including learning difficulties, Attention Deficit Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Marital/Relationship problems, Anxiety, and Depression.
(615) 455-3227 View (615) 455-3227
Photo of Rebecca R Cochran, MS, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Rebecca R Cochran
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I enjoy working with clients ages 18 and up who have experienced life changing events that result in grief and loss, depression, anxiety and stress, and relational conflicts.
Walking into a therapist's office for the first time can be a daunting experience and even scary for some. So can acknowledging a problem or accepting that something in your life isn't quite working. With genuine warmth and concern, coupled with an authentic approach to problem solving, I will help you take those initial steps towards change and growth. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which both parties agree to work hard. Together, we'll identify areas for change and growth, make a realistic plan and trouble-shoot problems as we go along in an effort to achieve emotional stability and wholeness.
I enjoy working with clients ages 18 and up who have experienced life changing events that result in grief and loss, depression, anxiety and stress, and relational conflicts.
Walking into a therapist's office for the first time can be a daunting experience and even scary for some. So can acknowledging a problem or accepting that something in your life isn't quite working. With genuine warmth and concern, coupled with an authentic approach to problem solving, I will help you take those initial steps towards change and growth. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which both parties agree to work hard. Together, we'll identify areas for change and growth, make a realistic plan and trouble-shoot problems as we go along in an effort to achieve emotional stability and wholeness.
(901) 244-4358 View (901) 244-4358
Photo of Amy Fowler, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Fowler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37403
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
(423) 454-3268 View (423) 454-3268
Photo of Hannah Wood, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Wood
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
(865) 830-1309 View (865) 830-1309
Photo of Dr. Amy L. Skinner, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, KAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Amy L. Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, KAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
As a former professor who trained therapists, I have over 30 years experience working with depression and anxiety, women's issues, transition & disability issues, and resolving new & old trauma.
My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. My therapeutic approach changes with your individual needs to promote your uniqueness as a person and your capabilities to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. In addition to traditional therapies, I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to eligible clients. I am happy to partner with you on your wellness journey.
As a former professor who trained therapists, I have over 30 years experience working with depression and anxiety, women's issues, transition & disability issues, and resolving new & old trauma.
My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. My therapeutic approach changes with your individual needs to promote your uniqueness as a person and your capabilities to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. In addition to traditional therapies, I offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to eligible clients. I am happy to partner with you on your wellness journey.
(865) 258-8297 View (865) 258-8297
Photo of Stacy Hernandez - Affinity Counseling - Stacy M Hernandez AAIT Cert., LPC, MHSP, AAIT-, Licensed Professional Counselor
Affinity Counseling - Stacy M Hernandez AAIT Cert.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, AAIT-
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Hello! Welcome to my page! I have been in the counseling field for 21 years and I am passionate about working with female adults and adolescents struggling with depression and anxiety. To achieve relieve from anxiety and depression, I utilize a therapeutic approach called Acceptance and Integration Therapy. Being a certified AAIT (Acceptance and Integration) therapist has allowed me to help clients heal, identify goals and quickly relieve psychological suffering. Let's get together and start helping you live a better authentic life!
Hello! Welcome to my page! I have been in the counseling field for 21 years and I am passionate about working with female adults and adolescents struggling with depression and anxiety. To achieve relieve from anxiety and depression, I utilize a therapeutic approach called Acceptance and Integration Therapy. Being a certified AAIT (Acceptance and Integration) therapist has allowed me to help clients heal, identify goals and quickly relieve psychological suffering. Let's get together and start helping you live a better authentic life!
(865) 407-2290 View (865) 407-2290
Photo of Leanne Hayes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanne Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Are you, your child, or teen experiencing challenges with emotions, behavior, or social skills? If so, let’s talk. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 + years of experience working in the mental health field. Helping people work toward positive change is what I love, and I specialize in working with children, adolescents, families, and young adults. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, anger, low self-esteem, and with working in the foster care system. My husband and I are blessed to be parents through adoption, and I enjoy working with adoptive families.
Are you, your child, or teen experiencing challenges with emotions, behavior, or social skills? If so, let’s talk. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 + years of experience working in the mental health field. Helping people work toward positive change is what I love, and I specialize in working with children, adolescents, families, and young adults. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, anger, low self-esteem, and with working in the foster care system. My husband and I are blessed to be parents through adoption, and I enjoy working with adoptive families.
(615) 632-6648 View (615) 632-6648
Photo of Michelle DeMent, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle DeMent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years' counseling experience. With a genuine heart to help, warmth, and a sense of humor, my goal is to walk alongside my clients in a relaxed and supportive environment. I specialize in children/adolescents and regularly meet with parents/guardians to discuss progress or concerns. I am also accustomed to working with military populations. Utilizing a variety of treatment modalities, my areas of clinical focus include stress, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, divorce, low self-esteem, social/relationship difficulties, and adjustment issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years' counseling experience. With a genuine heart to help, warmth, and a sense of humor, my goal is to walk alongside my clients in a relaxed and supportive environment. I specialize in children/adolescents and regularly meet with parents/guardians to discuss progress or concerns. I am also accustomed to working with military populations. Utilizing a variety of treatment modalities, my areas of clinical focus include stress, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, divorce, low self-esteem, social/relationship difficulties, and adjustment issues.
(615) 206-4595 View (615) 206-4595
1
...
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.