Depression Therapists in Cleveland, TN

Photo of Ivorie Mayes, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ivorie Mayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
If your child is navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I invite you to reach out.
As a therapist with nine years of experience working with families and children; I currently am a Therapist at Divergent Roads Counseling. My mission is to lead you toward peace, ensuring you feel heard and understood. With a focus on children, I've spent the past five years addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Let's equip you with the skills to confidently navigate life's challenges. Taking this significant step towards therapy is crucial, and I'm here to support you. I accept self-pay clients, and for insurance inquiries, please call to check eligibility. Excited to assist you on your journey.
If your child is navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, I invite you to reach out.
As a therapist with nine years of experience working with families and children; I currently am a Therapist at Divergent Roads Counseling. My mission is to lead you toward peace, ensuring you feel heard and understood. With a focus on children, I've spent the past five years addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Let's equip you with the skills to confidently navigate life's challenges. Taking this significant step towards therapy is crucial, and I'm here to support you. I accept self-pay clients, and for insurance inquiries, please call to check eligibility. Excited to assist you on your journey.
(423) 460-8966 View (423) 460-8966
Photo of Ben Marlow - Carpe Diem Self Improvement Center, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carpe Diem Self Improvement Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
I have experience in substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, grief, assertiveness skills training.
I understand that life doesn't always go as we planned. But unwanted changes don't define us. I see adaptation as one of our greatest abilities. I believe that we are all are entitled to unconditional positive regard and to be met where we are at in the quest to live our best life. I use a Client-centered approach to ensure we progress at a pace that is comfortable for you and helps you bring about your own positive changes.
I have experience in substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, anger management, grief, assertiveness skills training.
I understand that life doesn't always go as we planned. But unwanted changes don't define us. I see adaptation as one of our greatest abilities. I believe that we are all are entitled to unconditional positive regard and to be met where we are at in the quest to live our best life. I use a Client-centered approach to ensure we progress at a pace that is comfortable for you and helps you bring about your own positive changes.
(423) 641-8519 View (423) 641-8519
Photo of Katherine Gladu, MA, LPC, MHSP, BACC, BSBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Gladu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, BACC, BSBA
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Being a part of a community promotes well being, while isolation breeds depression.
No matter how much effort you put forth in your significant relationships, the message you want them to receive, seems lost in the confusion of misunderstandings. You want to love and be loved, but you continue to feel alone and sometimes devalued. What is their problem --or your's? How can you connect in healthy ways and maintain your own personal values and goals? As your mind continues to repeat memories of failed attempts to fix what has gone wrong, you don't know where to turn for real help. Everyone seems to have an answer, but no one sees the whole picture. There are times when an objective listener is the best option.
Being a part of a community promotes well being, while isolation breeds depression.
No matter how much effort you put forth in your significant relationships, the message you want them to receive, seems lost in the confusion of misunderstandings. You want to love and be loved, but you continue to feel alone and sometimes devalued. What is their problem --or your's? How can you connect in healthy ways and maintain your own personal values and goals? As your mind continues to repeat memories of failed attempts to fix what has gone wrong, you don't know where to turn for real help. Everyone seems to have an answer, but no one sees the whole picture. There are times when an objective listener is the best option.
(423) 250-3154 View (423) 250-3154
Photo of Tabitha A Shumate, MFT-I, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Tabitha A Shumate
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
At times symptoms from anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression that follows, can hinder our ability from living the life we want, especially when feeling vulnerable and misunderstood. This affects our relationships, parenting, friendships, marriages, career, social life, and living out our fullest potential. If your struggling with a thought life that leans more on the negative side and doesn't line up with who you are or who you want to be, I can help.
At times symptoms from anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression that follows, can hinder our ability from living the life we want, especially when feeling vulnerable and misunderstood. This affects our relationships, parenting, friendships, marriages, career, social life, and living out our fullest potential. If your struggling with a thought life that leans more on the negative side and doesn't line up with who you are or who you want to be, I can help.
(423) 648-3150 View (423) 648-3150
Photo of Leigh Irvin, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Irvin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Through that experience guidance has been offered in learning to better cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-injury, and relationships in a healthy way.
As an individual committed to your well-being, I offer personalized counseling to guide you through life's challenges. Together, we can explore strengths, navigate difficulties, and foster a positive mindset. I can provide deep understanding of diverse challenges, offering proven strategies for positive change. Step into a safe space where your thoughts are heard without judgment. My commitment to providing this safe space ensures you can explore, express, and heal. Take the first step toward a more fulfilling life because your path to a happier, healthier life can begin here. Let's embark on this journey together.
Through that experience guidance has been offered in learning to better cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-injury, and relationships in a healthy way.
As an individual committed to your well-being, I offer personalized counseling to guide you through life's challenges. Together, we can explore strengths, navigate difficulties, and foster a positive mindset. I can provide deep understanding of diverse challenges, offering proven strategies for positive change. Step into a safe space where your thoughts are heard without judgment. My commitment to providing this safe space ensures you can explore, express, and heal. Take the first step toward a more fulfilling life because your path to a happier, healthier life can begin here. Let's embark on this journey together.
(423) 509-0480 View (423) 509-0480
Photo of William A Wray, EdD, Psychologist
William A Wray
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
Some of the more common problems addressed here are high anxiety, dysphoria/ depression, attention deficit issues, post-traumatic stress, brain/memory dysfunction, relationship issues, communication issues, sadness/grief, and recovery from major illness or injury.
I provide counseling and consultative services. With the help of my colleague, Mark Shively, we also provide training using biofeedback technology. As a counselor, my role is to listen, discern strengths and vulnerabilities, and invite growth/advancement from those placing trust in my care. As a consultant, I strive to provide fair/impartial answers (in the manner of a scientist) to posed questions. Cognitive-behavioral training can address many thought patterns, behaviors and physiological states (such as stress).
Some of the more common problems addressed here are high anxiety, dysphoria/ depression, attention deficit issues, post-traumatic stress, brain/memory dysfunction, relationship issues, communication issues, sadness/grief, and recovery from major illness or injury.
I provide counseling and consultative services. With the help of my colleague, Mark Shively, we also provide training using biofeedback technology. As a counselor, my role is to listen, discern strengths and vulnerabilities, and invite growth/advancement from those placing trust in my care. As a consultant, I strive to provide fair/impartial answers (in the manner of a scientist) to posed questions. Cognitive-behavioral training can address many thought patterns, behaviors and physiological states (such as stress).
(423) 212-4580 View (423) 212-4580
Photo of Dr. Joel D. Lyon, PhD, LPC, CPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Joel D. Lyon
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPS
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
I am also a Certified Peer, having lived through major depression myself.
Hi. My name is Joel. I have been practicing for 18 years working mostly with adolescents and adults effected by trauma, grief, depression and anger.
I am also a Certified Peer, having lived through major depression myself.
Hi. My name is Joel. I have been practicing for 18 years working mostly with adolescents and adults effected by trauma, grief, depression and anger.
(706) 659-9695 View (706) 659-9695
Photo of Tara Murphy, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
If you are feeling hopeless, out of control, or stuck about what is going on in your life, you have come to the right place. The most common issues clients come to me with are: grief, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, job/school stress, self-esteem issues, divorce care, and midlife "crisis." Also, some people seek therapy because they just feel "blah" and unfulfilled and they don't know why. If any of this rings a bell with you, let's talk! I can help by offering new perspectives, teaching coping skills, and introducing more helpful thinking patterns. Change can be so hard, but you don't have to do it alone.
If you are feeling hopeless, out of control, or stuck about what is going on in your life, you have come to the right place. The most common issues clients come to me with are: grief, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, job/school stress, self-esteem issues, divorce care, and midlife "crisis." Also, some people seek therapy because they just feel "blah" and unfulfilled and they don't know why. If any of this rings a bell with you, let's talk! I can help by offering new perspectives, teaching coping skills, and introducing more helpful thinking patterns. Change can be so hard, but you don't have to do it alone.
(423) 564-4344 View (423) 564-4344
Photo of Christine Lawson, MACMHC, MDiv, NCC, LPC -, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACMHC, MDiv, NCC, LPC -, MHSP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, ADHD, Autism, or just need someone to listen to you empathetically without judgment, connect with me.
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, ADHD, Autism, or just need someone to listen to you empathetically without judgment, connect with me.
Depression and anxiety can really affect every area of your life. Reaching out to seek help is sometimes hard, but it is an important step in self-care and healing. My name is Christine Lawson, and in addition to anxiety and depression, I have worked with those who are in crisis due to self-harming behaviors as well as thoughts of suicide. With 15+ years of experience as a special education teacher before refocusing on counseling in 2019, I have also worked extensively with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities and behavior disorders. If you need a safe space to work on those things that are blocking your joy, I'm here for you.
(423) 523-8805 View (423) 523-8805
Photo of Crystal Fawley, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Crystal Fawley
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Choosing to pursue therapy is courageous. Life throws curve balls, often forcing us to face challenges which seem impossible to navigate. Obstacles such as trauma, infidelity, life transitions (birth, divorce, facing an empty nest, etc.), anxiety, or depression, can feel daunting. I am privileged to hear your story and I am honored to sit with you as we sort through your specific situation and move toward healing.
Choosing to pursue therapy is courageous. Life throws curve balls, often forcing us to face challenges which seem impossible to navigate. Obstacles such as trauma, infidelity, life transitions (birth, divorce, facing an empty nest, etc.), anxiety, or depression, can feel daunting. I am privileged to hear your story and I am honored to sit with you as we sort through your specific situation and move toward healing.
(423) 401-6750 View (423) 401-6750
Photo of Joshua Alexander, MFTI, MS, AAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Joshua Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFTI, MS, AAMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I specialize in anxiety, OCD, family relationships, loneliness, trauma, depression, relational issues, spirituality/faith, life transitions, and identity.
The couples and individuals I work with come to therapy feeling isolated, undervalued, and unheard. If you are tired of not feeling good enough, ashamed, or angry, my hope is to help you rediscover what love means, heal your connection within yourself and each other, and create a new chapter of your story. I practice with couples and individuals from a client-focused perspective of unconditional acceptance- no matter what you bring to therapy, it has a place. I have hope that we can discover the tools together to process, heal, and journey forward finding the version of yourself that you want to be.
I specialize in anxiety, OCD, family relationships, loneliness, trauma, depression, relational issues, spirituality/faith, life transitions, and identity.
The couples and individuals I work with come to therapy feeling isolated, undervalued, and unheard. If you are tired of not feeling good enough, ashamed, or angry, my hope is to help you rediscover what love means, heal your connection within yourself and each other, and create a new chapter of your story. I practice with couples and individuals from a client-focused perspective of unconditional acceptance- no matter what you bring to therapy, it has a place. I have hope that we can discover the tools together to process, heal, and journey forward finding the version of yourself that you want to be.
(423) 295-7633 View (423) 295-7633
Photo of Hannah Fraser, MS, MFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Hannah Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFTI
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
Hello! I am a therapist that specializes in family therapy and therapy for children and teens ages 3-18. I also enjoy working with adults of all ages who are experiencing grief, anxiety, or tics. I believe that people are exceptionally resilient. However, there are times when circumstances become too overwhelming to bear alone. Children may have difficulty sharing their emotions verbally and will instead act out, causing stress in the family. My passion is creating a safe space for healing to occur. I work with children and families experiencing anxiety, depression, tics, autism (levels 1 and 2), trauma, grief, divorce, and more.
Hello! I am a therapist that specializes in family therapy and therapy for children and teens ages 3-18. I also enjoy working with adults of all ages who are experiencing grief, anxiety, or tics. I believe that people are exceptionally resilient. However, there are times when circumstances become too overwhelming to bear alone. Children may have difficulty sharing their emotions verbally and will instead act out, causing stress in the family. My passion is creating a safe space for healing to occur. I work with children and families experiencing anxiety, depression, tics, autism (levels 1 and 2), trauma, grief, divorce, and more.
(423) 455-9751 View (423) 455-9751
Photo of Christopher Paul Dennison, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Paul Dennison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
My ideal client is a child or young person who is struggling with depression and is trying everything they can to get better, or has tried hard for so long they're exhausted; a mother and/or father who love their child and want to see them recover from these issues they are experiencing. Or, perhaps, the conflict at home has gotten so difficult that you're looking for answers to find peace.
My ideal client is a child or young person who is struggling with depression and is trying everything they can to get better, or has tried hard for so long they're exhausted; a mother and/or father who love their child and want to see them recover from these issues they are experiencing. Or, perhaps, the conflict at home has gotten so difficult that you're looking for answers to find peace.
(423) 734-9580 View (423) 734-9580
Photo of Charidith Fuller, MS, LMFT, AAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charidith Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, AAMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Waitlist for new clients
You are doing a brave thing. Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression can play a role in keeping us from seeking help outside of our known comfort zone. But there is help available, and hope for a better life. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and trauma and PTSD symptoms. We may cope in ways that work in the moment, but come back in the form of panic attacks, isolation, fatigue, lack of focus, appetite changes, difficulty staying motivated, and feeling constantly on edge or numb. If anxiety is hindering your quality of life, or your depression is too heavy to carry alone, welcome. This is a safe place to unpack these.
You are doing a brave thing. Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression can play a role in keeping us from seeking help outside of our known comfort zone. But there is help available, and hope for a better life. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and trauma and PTSD symptoms. We may cope in ways that work in the moment, but come back in the form of panic attacks, isolation, fatigue, lack of focus, appetite changes, difficulty staying motivated, and feeling constantly on edge or numb. If anxiety is hindering your quality of life, or your depression is too heavy to carry alone, welcome. This is a safe place to unpack these.
(423) 205-0988 View (423) 205-0988
Photo of Virginia Dora Winn-Cooper, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Dora Winn-Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
I have 23 years experience in working with caregiver problems, grief, loss, depression, and anxiety.
Each one of us face moments in life when we could use help in finding our way. Perhaps life's problems have left you feeling helpless and you are not sure how to regain control over your situation. Maybe fear and anxiety have begun to limit the joy and happiness you are able to feel. It might be that you're athletic or work performance has plateaued and you are looking for a mental edge to function at optimal efficiency. Seeking help from a qualified therapist is a great start toward improving your situation.
I have 23 years experience in working with caregiver problems, grief, loss, depression, and anxiety.
Each one of us face moments in life when we could use help in finding our way. Perhaps life's problems have left you feeling helpless and you are not sure how to regain control over your situation. Maybe fear and anxiety have begun to limit the joy and happiness you are able to feel. It might be that you're athletic or work performance has plateaued and you are looking for a mental edge to function at optimal efficiency. Seeking help from a qualified therapist is a great start toward improving your situation.
(423) 345-8704 View (423) 345-8704
Photo of Lara Kate Todd, MS, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Lara Kate Todd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I work with individuals and couples who are encountering relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
Life brings so many challenges, and at times you can feel stuck and lost. You may be feeling stuck in your relationship, or you may be feeling overwhelmed with all the changes life has thrown at you. Therapy is a safe place to process your experiences and walk through your journey. I would be honored to work with you while you navigate these difficult situations and participate in your healing process. My goal as a therapist is for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. There is hope in your journey and you are not alone!
I work with individuals and couples who are encountering relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
Life brings so many challenges, and at times you can feel stuck and lost. You may be feeling stuck in your relationship, or you may be feeling overwhelmed with all the changes life has thrown at you. Therapy is a safe place to process your experiences and walk through your journey. I would be honored to work with you while you navigate these difficult situations and participate in your healing process. My goal as a therapist is for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. There is hope in your journey and you are not alone!
(423) 561-9148 View (423) 561-9148
Photo of Heather Ann Carver - Anchor Family Counseling, LPC, MHSP, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anchor Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, S
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
My passion for working with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults of all ages) is rooted in my faith in God. I utilize skills, tools, and techniques in a modern "human to human" approach to help my clients find their hope and passion for life. Whether you have abuse & trauma, anxiety, ADHD, child and adolescent issues, depression, divorce recovery, mood disorder, eating disorder, addiction or substance use, grief & loss, parenting struggles, self-esteem, or social skills, assisting you in finding hope, I consider a divine appointment.
My passion for working with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults of all ages) is rooted in my faith in God. I utilize skills, tools, and techniques in a modern "human to human" approach to help my clients find their hope and passion for life. Whether you have abuse & trauma, anxiety, ADHD, child and adolescent issues, depression, divorce recovery, mood disorder, eating disorder, addiction or substance use, grief & loss, parenting struggles, self-esteem, or social skills, assisting you in finding hope, I consider a divine appointment.
(423) 375-8676 View (423) 375-8676
Photo of Julie Ann Gardenhire, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Ann Gardenhire
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
), and individual therapy (anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma).
Life has bumps in the road, and the distress we feel often makes sense within the context of the circumstances we face. My goal, as a licensed marriage and family therapist, is to help individuals, couples, and families identify underlying factors contributing to distress, and to experience healing and peace amid life’s challenges.
), and individual therapy (anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma).
Life has bumps in the road, and the distress we feel often makes sense within the context of the circumstances we face. My goal, as a licensed marriage and family therapist, is to help individuals, couples, and families identify underlying factors contributing to distress, and to experience healing and peace amid life’s challenges.
(423) 380-1507 View (423) 380-1507
Photo of Kristi Byrd, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristi Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
I have worked with children in different capacities throughout my life and have been in the mental health field for over 10 years providing therapy for children, individuals and families. I have worked with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, autism, relationship issues, trauma, self harm and much more. I believe that YOU are the expert in your life, however I know that at times it is helpful to be able to talk to someone else. I strive to empower, encourage and support each person that I work with. I enjoy meeting new people and working to help others create the life they truly desire to live.
I have worked with children in different capacities throughout my life and have been in the mental health field for over 10 years providing therapy for children, individuals and families. I have worked with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, autism, relationship issues, trauma, self harm and much more. I believe that YOU are the expert in your life, however I know that at times it is helpful to be able to talk to someone else. I strive to empower, encourage and support each person that I work with. I enjoy meeting new people and working to help others create the life they truly desire to live.
(423) 436-9727 View (423) 436-9727
Photo of Meredith Vining Parker, MA
Meredith Vining Parker
MA
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311  (Online Only)
I am a Masters Level therapist with 17+ years experience. I work with older children through senior adults, marriage/family/parenting issues, and mental health disorders, such as Depression and Anxiety. As a former teacher, I have a unique combination of experiences that contribute to my success in working with youth. When counseling school age children, I involve the client's entire environment (parents, teachers, etc.) to develop a comprehensive plan in treating the whole client. I am a member of the AACC.
I am a Masters Level therapist with 17+ years experience. I work with older children through senior adults, marriage/family/parenting issues, and mental health disorders, such as Depression and Anxiety. As a former teacher, I have a unique combination of experiences that contribute to my success in working with youth. When counseling school age children, I involve the client's entire environment (parents, teachers, etc.) to develop a comprehensive plan in treating the whole client. I am a member of the AACC.
(423) 381-8950 View (423) 381-8950
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.