Photo of Diane Gammon -Living With Hope Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Diane Gammon -Living With Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Welcome! My passion is to help empower individuals broken in spirit to attain hope and healing. I extend a non-judgmental and safe demeanor. I specialize in ADOS2 Testing, Diagnosing and Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Neurodiverse/ Neurotypical Relationships, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Crisis, Holistic Self-Care & Nutrition, Grief & Loss, Miscarriages/ Infant Loss, Personality Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicide Ideation, Drug/ Alcohol/ Addictions, Self-Esteem/ Self-Worth, Eating Disorders/ Wt., Body Image, Communication Skills & Relationships, Sexual Abuse/ Assault, Rape/ Domestic Violence recovery, and Behavior Issues.
Welcome! My passion is to help empower individuals broken in spirit to attain hope and healing. I extend a non-judgmental and safe demeanor. I specialize in ADOS2 Testing, Diagnosing and Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Neurodiverse/ Neurotypical Relationships, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Crisis, Holistic Self-Care & Nutrition, Grief & Loss, Miscarriages/ Infant Loss, Personality Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicide Ideation, Drug/ Alcohol/ Addictions, Self-Esteem/ Self-Worth, Eating Disorders/ Wt., Body Image, Communication Skills & Relationships, Sexual Abuse/ Assault, Rape/ Domestic Violence recovery, and Behavior Issues.
(615) 654-6252 View (615) 654-6252
Photo of Rhonda Lee Pendergrass, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Rhonda Lee Pendergrass
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Personal life experiences have inspired me to help others. I have developed a deeper understanding and empathy for others that experience difficult times. I have experience working with clients that have experienced significant loss and trauma. Physical health and mental health problems, often, develop when an individual experiences high level of stress. Depression and other mental health problems may occur when individuals and families experience multiple issues. Some issues may include separation, divorce, and loss of a loved one.
Personal life experiences have inspired me to help others. I have developed a deeper understanding and empathy for others that experience difficult times. I have experience working with clients that have experienced significant loss and trauma. Physical health and mental health problems, often, develop when an individual experiences high level of stress. Depression and other mental health problems may occur when individuals and families experience multiple issues. Some issues may include separation, divorce, and loss of a loved one.
(615) 645-2967 View (615) 645-2967
Photo of Lesley Anne Granholm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Lesley Anne Granholm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129  (Online Only)
I offer talk therapy to clients who are experiencing grief, depression, and anxiety as well as other difficulties.
Accepting adult clients for Telehealth only. “Let’s talk” it’s that easy. Please email me with your questions which is the fastest way to get in touch with me. Let’s work together to reach your goals as well as feeling much better.
I offer talk therapy to clients who are experiencing grief, depression, and anxiety as well as other difficulties.
Accepting adult clients for Telehealth only. “Let’s talk” it’s that easy. Please email me with your questions which is the fastest way to get in touch with me. Let’s work together to reach your goals as well as feeling much better.
(615) 583-9945 View (615) 583-9945
Photo of Corbett Hinkle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Corbett Hinkle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I work with individuals concerned with depression, life transitions, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, disordered/binge eating, and relationship issues.
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
I work with individuals concerned with depression, life transitions, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, disordered/binge eating, and relationship issues.
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
(615) 410-9837 View (615) 410-9837
Photo of Crayton Counseling & Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Crayton Counseling & Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Their experience is as diverse as the clients they work with, including, addiction, trauma, anxiety, grief, shame, depression, etc.
"Even the darkest nights end and the sun will shine." Regardless of the situation you may find yourself in, we believe we all have the ability to make meaningful changes in our lives. The past can be hard to let go, but each day brings with it a new opportunity. The opportunity to grow, to learn, to forgive, to move forward. If you are ready to take that first step, we am here to help at Crayton Counseling & Associates!!
Their experience is as diverse as the clients they work with, including, addiction, trauma, anxiety, grief, shame, depression, etc.
"Even the darkest nights end and the sun will shine." Regardless of the situation you may find yourself in, we believe we all have the ability to make meaningful changes in our lives. The past can be hard to let go, but each day brings with it a new opportunity. The opportunity to grow, to learn, to forgive, to move forward. If you are ready to take that first step, we am here to help at Crayton Counseling & Associates!!
(615) 590-3471 View (615) 590-3471
Photo of Harmony Health Medical in Murfreesboro, TN
Harmony Health Medical
DNP, APRN , FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
We specialize in mental healthcare, medication management and therapies. We accept patients age 5 and up. Our practitioners have been trained in behavior modification therapies, and specialize in many different areas ranging from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ptsd, eating disorders, divorce, anger management to substance abuse and recovery. Our focus is on helping you set therapeutic goals and achieving those goals through medications or counseling or both.
We specialize in mental healthcare, medication management and therapies. We accept patients age 5 and up. Our practitioners have been trained in behavior modification therapies, and specialize in many different areas ranging from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ptsd, eating disorders, divorce, anger management to substance abuse and recovery. Our focus is on helping you set therapeutic goals and achieving those goals through medications or counseling or both.
(615) 551-1202 View (615) 551-1202
Photo of Andre'a J Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Andre'a J Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from trauma, sex trafficking, depression, anxiety, and faith related issues.
I understand that life can be difficult, some things are within our control and other things just aren't. I also know for some there is a challenge to seek support. Let me first congratulate you in making a tough, yet hopeful choice. I have worked with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, with a wide variety of needs. I am excited to work with you, whether dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, trauma, or just seeking a better quality of life. If you are motivated to do the work, I will provide one of a kind support for your journey!
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from trauma, sex trafficking, depression, anxiety, and faith related issues.
I understand that life can be difficult, some things are within our control and other things just aren't. I also know for some there is a challenge to seek support. Let me first congratulate you in making a tough, yet hopeful choice. I have worked with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, with a wide variety of needs. I am excited to work with you, whether dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, trauma, or just seeking a better quality of life. If you are motivated to do the work, I will provide one of a kind support for your journey!
(419) 871-4968 View (419) 871-4968
Photo of Kate Sjostrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Kate Sjostrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37127
Areas of focus have included: ADHD, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, impact of Postpartum Depression, parent-child difficulties, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, low self-esteem and trauma exposure.
Please Note: After-school time slots are booked but mornings are open. Does your child struggle with expressing his or her emotions, experience meltdowns, aggression, and changes in mood? Do you notice difficulties with regulating emotions and/or energy level? Perhaps you are getting phone calls from your child's school due to behavioral difficulties and disruptions. Or maybe you are noticing behavior challenges and power struggles at home. As a parent, it can be difficult and confusing as to how to best get help for your child. You want to see your child thriving with the necessary support and coping skills to make that happen.
Areas of focus have included: ADHD, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, impact of Postpartum Depression, parent-child difficulties, emotional dysregulation, grief and loss, low self-esteem and trauma exposure.
Please Note: After-school time slots are booked but mornings are open. Does your child struggle with expressing his or her emotions, experience meltdowns, aggression, and changes in mood? Do you notice difficulties with regulating emotions and/or energy level? Perhaps you are getting phone calls from your child's school due to behavioral difficulties and disruptions. Or maybe you are noticing behavior challenges and power struggles at home. As a parent, it can be difficult and confusing as to how to best get help for your child. You want to see your child thriving with the necessary support and coping skills to make that happen.
(615) 697-4539 View (615) 697-4539
Photo of Ellen K Slicker, Psychologist in Murfreesboro, TN
Ellen K Slicker
Psychologist, PhD, HSP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Whether you are dealing with problems from a dysfunctional family of origin, women's issues, men's issues, marital issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depressed mood, ADHD, I seek clients who are willing to work to make changes in themselves through cognitive-behavioral counseling rather than those who only want others to change.
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
Whether you are dealing with problems from a dysfunctional family of origin, women's issues, men's issues, marital issues, relationship issues, anxiety, depressed mood, ADHD, I seek clients who are willing to work to make changes in themselves through cognitive-behavioral counseling rather than those who only want others to change.
A large part of my practice centers around working with families and helping parents of children who may be having behavior problems at home or at school and working with the children and adolescents themselves. I incorporate child-centered play therapy with young children as well as Adlerian and behavioral concepts with parents. I am a licensed psychologist with Health Service Provider in Psychology credential, a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and a retired MTSU professor after teaching in the Professional Counseling Program for 25+ years. In addition to helping families, I also work extensively with couples and individuals who may be experiencing a variety of problematic daily living situations.
(615) 763-4975 View (615) 763-4975
Photo of Angie (Angelique) Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Angie (Angelique) Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Life can be hard, and sometimes we need some extra help and support to get through those difficult times. Whether it's dealing with young children or teenagers, relationship or family issues, anxiety or depression, the challenges of college life or jobs, or the curve ball that life throws at us, it can be stressful to manage, and can be helpful to have someone outside of the situation to talk with.
Life can be hard, and sometimes we need some extra help and support to get through those difficult times. Whether it's dealing with young children or teenagers, relationship or family issues, anxiety or depression, the challenges of college life or jobs, or the curve ball that life throws at us, it can be stressful to manage, and can be helpful to have someone outside of the situation to talk with.
(615) 235-1628 View (615) 235-1628
Photo of Jill Harcrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Jill Harcrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
"Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you and listen in such a way that others love to speak to you." We are all going through own our journey through life and many times the path ahead feels and appears impossible. Or maybe there is so much damage from a road that blew up on you and now you can't see which way to go. No matter what age, we can all find pieces of our life that we can control and influence positively even in the midst of impossibility. Anxiety, anger, family conflict, behavioral issues, blended families, stress management. trauma, depression, and the list goes on of things that can impair our daily life.
"Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you and listen in such a way that others love to speak to you." We are all going through own our journey through life and many times the path ahead feels and appears impossible. Or maybe there is so much damage from a road that blew up on you and now you can't see which way to go. No matter what age, we can all find pieces of our life that we can control and influence positively even in the midst of impossibility. Anxiety, anger, family conflict, behavioral issues, blended families, stress management. trauma, depression, and the list goes on of things that can impair our daily life.
(615) 724-1019 View (615) 724-1019
Photo of Nancy Spears, Marriage & Family Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Nancy Spears
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
- anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem/identity, grief/loss, etc.
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
- anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem/identity, grief/loss, etc.
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
(615) 437-4121 View (615) 437-4121
Photo of Danielle Choate, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Danielle Choate
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Life can be difficult to navigate and there's no user manual. Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you have a child or teenager who is often mislabeled as a "bad kid"? Do you feel your plate is more than full? Are you struggling to manage it all at once? Life can feel overwhelming. You keep burying these feelings and telling yourself "I'm fine". You deserve time to slow down and focus on yourself.
Life can be difficult to navigate and there's no user manual. Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you have a child or teenager who is often mislabeled as a "bad kid"? Do you feel your plate is more than full? Are you struggling to manage it all at once? Life can feel overwhelming. You keep burying these feelings and telling yourself "I'm fine". You deserve time to slow down and focus on yourself.
(615) 488-2718 View (615) 488-2718
Photo of Kate Jeffcoat, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Murfreesboro, TN
Kate Jeffcoat
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Waitlist for new clients
As a trauma informed Clinician and EMDR trained provider, I am committed to working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, complex and acute trauma to experience encompassing healing in all realms(mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally).
“He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds.” Psalms 147:3 I invite you to go on a journey of healing  that brings hope to your future. I believe that every single person has their own unique blueprint that encompasses their story. I will support, advocate and walk beside you as we face fears, navigate life, and experience freedom and work towards enhancing your quality of life.  I utilize an integrative comprehensive  strengths-based approach specifically targeting trauma, identifying values and your specific needs by structuring a plan catered to each individual’s structured blueprint.
As a trauma informed Clinician and EMDR trained provider, I am committed to working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, complex and acute trauma to experience encompassing healing in all realms(mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally).
“He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds.” Psalms 147:3 I invite you to go on a journey of healing  that brings hope to your future. I believe that every single person has their own unique blueprint that encompasses their story. I will support, advocate and walk beside you as we face fears, navigate life, and experience freedom and work towards enhancing your quality of life.  I utilize an integrative comprehensive  strengths-based approach specifically targeting trauma, identifying values and your specific needs by structuring a plan catered to each individual’s structured blueprint.
(615) 722-4762 View (615) 722-4762
Photo of Birds on a Wire Counseling, Pastoral Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Birds on a Wire Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MA, NCCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Whether you struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk with as you struggle through life's issues , It would be an honor to walk alongside you.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
Whether you struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk with as you struggle through life's issues , It would be an honor to walk alongside you.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Struggles can come about through a variety of reasons; marriage, kids, work, or an unexpected crisis. They all add up to a lot of pressure and stress leaving you feeling hopeless and out of balance. Having the tools to navigate these challenges can help you feel confident and deepen your self-awareness.
(615) 547-3214 View (615) 547-3214
Photo of Alexis Fitzpatrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Alexis Fitzpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I also assist with depression, communication, and significant life transitions.
You deserve to live a life of overall wellness. Anxiety and trauma can make you feel stuck in cycles, impacting not only your personal well-being but also your connections with others. Unwanted thoughts and emotions can be overwhelming to process, leaving you struggling to communicate effectively. Maybe you are seeking a solution to combat your current processing patterns or want to feel more connected to yourself or others. My ultimate goal is to walk with you while exploring your emotions and thoughts without judgment.
I also assist with depression, communication, and significant life transitions.
You deserve to live a life of overall wellness. Anxiety and trauma can make you feel stuck in cycles, impacting not only your personal well-being but also your connections with others. Unwanted thoughts and emotions can be overwhelming to process, leaving you struggling to communicate effectively. Maybe you are seeking a solution to combat your current processing patterns or want to feel more connected to yourself or others. My ultimate goal is to walk with you while exploring your emotions and thoughts without judgment.
(615) 209-9251 View (615) 209-9251
Photo of Brittany Dyer, Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Brittany Dyer
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I am passionate about my work as a counselor, and I believe in the client and counselor relationship. Through this relationship, clients can be comfortable dealing with issues of addiction, anxiety, depression, family issues, grief, as well as many other personal issues. Exploration of these problem areas can lead to healing.
I am passionate about my work as a counselor, and I believe in the client and counselor relationship. Through this relationship, clients can be comfortable dealing with issues of addiction, anxiety, depression, family issues, grief, as well as many other personal issues. Exploration of these problem areas can lead to healing.
(615) 685-2009 View (615) 685-2009
Photo of Grace Wellness , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Grace Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
My experience also includes counseling individuals with an extensive history of complex trauma, severe mental illness, depression, anxiety, and intellectual & developmental disabilities.
The ability to meet people right where they are is such a powerful and sacred space. We at Grace Wellness embrace any opportunity to be allowed into that space during some of the most difficult times in life. It is our ultimate goal as therapists to provide the support, guidance, and listening ear to help you navigate this sometimes, tumultuous journey called life. You are already equipped with every tool within you to overcome obstacles, We are here to help you discover those tools. With an inviting, safe, and confidential atmosphere we here at Grace can help you learn and understand how to use those tools to enhance your life.
My experience also includes counseling individuals with an extensive history of complex trauma, severe mental illness, depression, anxiety, and intellectual & developmental disabilities.
The ability to meet people right where they are is such a powerful and sacred space. We at Grace Wellness embrace any opportunity to be allowed into that space during some of the most difficult times in life. It is our ultimate goal as therapists to provide the support, guidance, and listening ear to help you navigate this sometimes, tumultuous journey called life. You are already equipped with every tool within you to overcome obstacles, We are here to help you discover those tools. With an inviting, safe, and confidential atmosphere we here at Grace can help you learn and understand how to use those tools to enhance your life.
(931) 442-7021 View (931) 442-7021
Photo of Kevin Khye, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murfreesboro, TN
Kevin Khye
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. Think of me as a dedicated gardener, teaching you to hone your green thumb for personal growth, helping you cultivate the inner calm you deserve. Together, we'll tame the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tend to the roots of your experiences, and prune away what no longer serves you. I'll bring my set of therapy tools, blending cutting-edge techniques with a healthy dose of empathy and understanding. Together we will untangle the complexities of life.
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. Think of me as a dedicated gardener, teaching you to hone your green thumb for personal growth, helping you cultivate the inner calm you deserve. Together, we'll tame the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tend to the roots of your experiences, and prune away what no longer serves you. I'll bring my set of therapy tools, blending cutting-edge techniques with a healthy dose of empathy and understanding. Together we will untangle the complexities of life.
(615) 492-2712 View (615) 492-2712
Photo of Elizabeth Nguyen in Murfreesboro, TN
Elizabeth Nguyen
MMFT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Although I am open and able to seeing all ages, my specialty includes work primarily with children and adolescents who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and transitional periods of life. In working with children and teens, I also include work with parents, guardians, and others in the family system, as needed. My goal as a therapist is to help all clients process and heal from those difficult and challenging parts of life and help you to reframe parts of your story through a new lens.
Although I am open and able to seeing all ages, my specialty includes work primarily with children and adolescents who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and transitional periods of life. In working with children and teens, I also include work with parents, guardians, and others in the family system, as needed. My goal as a therapist is to help all clients process and heal from those difficult and challenging parts of life and help you to reframe parts of your story through a new lens.
(615) 909-2736 View (615) 909-2736

See more therapy options for Murfreesboro

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.