Depression Therapists in Austin, TX

Photo of Deep Eddy Psychotherapy, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, LCSW, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Trauma, and more.
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Trauma, and more.
Deep Eddy Psychotherapy is a leading mental health practice with providers all across the state of Texas. We serve kids, adults, and couples through evidence-based psychotherapy and assessment methods. Learn more at DeepEddyPsychotherapy.com
(512) 861-8779 View (512) 861-8779
Photo of Esther Kwak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Esther Kwak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Your story may include experiencing cycles of depression, anxiety, grief, past trauma, struggles of worthiness and belonging, the complexities of being a part of an immigrant family, generational trauma, a combination of these things, or perhaps something entirely different.
Imagine you are the writer. You have all the pieces of your story within you already. Think of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as those pieces. Sometimes, they don’t make any sense, it’s overwhelming, and you don’t know where to begin. That’s where I come in. While I cannot write your story for you, I can be there with you to guide you through the process as you explore and learn more about yourself, reach clarity and understanding, and experience a renewed sense of hope.
Your story may include experiencing cycles of depression, anxiety, grief, past trauma, struggles of worthiness and belonging, the complexities of being a part of an immigrant family, generational trauma, a combination of these things, or perhaps something entirely different.
Imagine you are the writer. You have all the pieces of your story within you already. Think of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as those pieces. Sometimes, they don’t make any sense, it’s overwhelming, and you don’t know where to begin. That’s where I come in. While I cannot write your story for you, I can be there with you to guide you through the process as you explore and learn more about yourself, reach clarity and understanding, and experience a renewed sense of hope.
(512) 561-0014 View (512) 561-0014
Photo of Jamie Figari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Jamie Figari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78756
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, or trauma, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and work toward greater authenticity and fulfillment.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples from a holistic perspective, incorporating evidence-based modalities to support healing and growth. My practice is informed by the belief that healing occurs within the context of relationships. I approach therapy from a "person in the environment perspective". I help clients explore the dynamics within their families of origin and how these patterns continue to influence their current relationships and sense of self. We will also explore the importance of secure attachments in fostering emotional regulation and resilience.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, or trauma, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and work toward greater authenticity and fulfillment.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples from a holistic perspective, incorporating evidence-based modalities to support healing and growth. My practice is informed by the belief that healing occurs within the context of relationships. I approach therapy from a "person in the environment perspective". I help clients explore the dynamics within their families of origin and how these patterns continue to influence their current relationships and sense of self. We will also explore the importance of secure attachments in fostering emotional regulation and resilience.
(512) 855-6363 View (512) 855-6363
Photo of Mindy Kanewske, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Mindy Kanewske
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78756
Waitlist for new clients
Now offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. We all seek out therapeutic support for different reasons. Some of us have survived painful life experiences that we can't seem to get past. Others are stuck in the cycle of anxiety or depression and have not found resolution. Some of us still react out of survival skills that we may have needed as a child, but can't stop them from coming up in our present life. I create a container that enables you to heal your nervous system, build emotional resiliency and shift harmful mental beliefs. I want to help my clients find resolution, not relief.
Now offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. We all seek out therapeutic support for different reasons. Some of us have survived painful life experiences that we can't seem to get past. Others are stuck in the cycle of anxiety or depression and have not found resolution. Some of us still react out of survival skills that we may have needed as a child, but can't stop them from coming up in our present life. I create a container that enables you to heal your nervous system, build emotional resiliency and shift harmful mental beliefs. I want to help my clients find resolution, not relief.
(512) 872-3076 View (512) 872-3076
Photo of Asli Baykal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Asli Baykal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst experienced in working with older adolescents and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and struggles with family dynamics, mood disorders, substance abuse, college and life transition anxieties - and those helping family members with these problems. My style is warm, engaged and collaborative. While I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, my orientation is primarily psychodynamic, which means I start with the assumption that the sources of distress can be complex and often outside our immediate awareness.
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst experienced in working with older adolescents and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and struggles with family dynamics, mood disorders, substance abuse, college and life transition anxieties - and those helping family members with these problems. My style is warm, engaged and collaborative. While I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, my orientation is primarily psychodynamic, which means I start with the assumption that the sources of distress can be complex and often outside our immediate awareness.
(617) 580-5291 View (617) 580-5291
Photo of National Deaf Therapy, Licensed Master Social Worker in Austin, TX
National Deaf Therapy
Licensed Master Social Worker, LGSW, LMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Austin, TX 78750
People may also need a safe space to process grief from loss, past trauma, anxiety, depression or other life trauma.
Hi! My name is Christina Burke I am a Deaf Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in Washington D.C. and Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Maryland. I provide psychological care and services to people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, late deafened and cochlear implant user in American Sign Language (ASL). My practical applications are mainly done through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Gestalt Therapy. It is natural to experience interpersonal dilemmas, workplace struggles or domestic stressors and need help identifying ways to balance those and engage in self-care.
People may also need a safe space to process grief from loss, past trauma, anxiety, depression or other life trauma.
Hi! My name is Christina Burke I am a Deaf Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) in Washington D.C. and Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Maryland. I provide psychological care and services to people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, late deafened and cochlear implant user in American Sign Language (ASL). My practical applications are mainly done through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Gestalt Therapy. It is natural to experience interpersonal dilemmas, workplace struggles or domestic stressors and need help identifying ways to balance those and engage in self-care.
(720) 571-9771 View (720) 571-9771
Photo of Jennifer Bilbrey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Jennifer Bilbrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Waitlist for new clients
If you're struggling with low self-esteem, depression or anxiety, identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), or are seeking couples counseling we may be a good fit for each other.
Maybe you've come to leave yourself alone with the bigger struggles in your life. Perhaps you were taught early on that your problems aren't that important or interesting - or maybe you learned that no one was really capable of helping you anyway. Over time, you developed the ability to appear as if you're totally fine. Nothing to see here! Maybe you're even excelling in some parts of your life. But the weight of these lifelong struggles is now becoming too much to bear alone.
If you're struggling with low self-esteem, depression or anxiety, identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), or are seeking couples counseling we may be a good fit for each other.
Maybe you've come to leave yourself alone with the bigger struggles in your life. Perhaps you were taught early on that your problems aren't that important or interesting - or maybe you learned that no one was really capable of helping you anyway. Over time, you developed the ability to appear as if you're totally fine. Nothing to see here! Maybe you're even excelling in some parts of your life. But the weight of these lifelong struggles is now becoming too much to bear alone.
(512) 607-7459 View (512) 607-7459
Photo of Audry Steele, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Audry Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
I specialize in a broad spectrum of psychological issues including anxiety, stress, depression, relationship complexities, codependency, narcissism, parenting, grief, post-partum challenges, self-esteem, bipolar symptoms, anger, and trauma.
Accepting new clients – Welcome, I've practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years and invite you to explore more about my approach here. If you find that you're interested in working together, please send an email. Perhaps you're reaching out because life's stressors have become overwhelming, relationships are challenging, or symptoms are too intense to handle alone. I specialize in depth-oriented therapy for adults facing personal, professional, or family challenges. I also support those who feel generally resilient and successful but are navigating significant stress.
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Photo of Anna Graybeal, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Anna Graybeal
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, SEP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78751
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I establish a strong alliance with my clients through empathy and respect and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals. Other areas of my expertise include parenting, divorce, health problems such as illness and chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, substance abuse, low self-esteem and identity issues.
(512) 540-5328 View (512) 540-5328
Photo of Arden Dana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Arden Dana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
Individuals feeling stressed and anxious trying to juggle all life’s challenges and commitments, looking to improve their coping skills. Those who are feeling depressed and overwhelmed by their own challenges and those of the world hoping to learn ways to manage mood and emotion. Parents, looking for positive ways to help their children grow, manage emotions and behavior. People who are looking for ways to heal from trauma and move forward toward a healthier, happier life. Individuals who are are also trying not only to learn about themselves but also to learn about the people they love and how to best support and interact with them
Individuals feeling stressed and anxious trying to juggle all life’s challenges and commitments, looking to improve their coping skills. Those who are feeling depressed and overwhelmed by their own challenges and those of the world hoping to learn ways to manage mood and emotion. Parents, looking for positive ways to help their children grow, manage emotions and behavior. People who are looking for ways to heal from trauma and move forward toward a healthier, happier life. Individuals who are are also trying not only to learn about themselves but also to learn about the people they love and how to best support and interact with them
(512) 890-1899 View (512) 890-1899
Photo of Insight Counseling & Therapy Solutions, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Insight Counseling & Therapy Solutions, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
I have successfully worked with relationship issues, severe mental health illnesses, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief and loss, self-esteem, self-harm, and many more.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Texas and New Mexico, offering a personable approach to psychotherapy for Couples & Individuals. I have experience working with all types of mental health disorders in various settings (individual, group, couples, family). My focus is on personal wellness for the individual and the family system. My goal is to work on the issues at hand using the most up to date research proven methods. I am passionate about empowering clients to find their voice & gain insight in a supportive & non-judgmental environment.
I have successfully worked with relationship issues, severe mental health illnesses, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief and loss, self-esteem, self-harm, and many more.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Texas and New Mexico, offering a personable approach to psychotherapy for Couples & Individuals. I have experience working with all types of mental health disorders in various settings (individual, group, couples, family). My focus is on personal wellness for the individual and the family system. My goal is to work on the issues at hand using the most up to date research proven methods. I am passionate about empowering clients to find their voice & gain insight in a supportive & non-judgmental environment.
(512) 271-4761 View (512) 271-4761
Photo of Amanda C Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Amanda C Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Therapy is a special relationship that fosters behavioral and thought changes while increasing personal growth through the creation of a secure environment. Through effective communication, therapeutic techniques, and positive support together we can work on the difficulties and struggles in your and your family's lives. I enjoy working with individuals and families struggling with a variety of issues. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, self-esteem and trauma. I have been working with children, adolescents and adults for the past 10 years in a variety of therapeutic settings.
Therapy is a special relationship that fosters behavioral and thought changes while increasing personal growth through the creation of a secure environment. Through effective communication, therapeutic techniques, and positive support together we can work on the difficulties and struggles in your and your family's lives. I enjoy working with individuals and families struggling with a variety of issues. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, self-esteem and trauma. I have been working with children, adolescents and adults for the past 10 years in a variety of therapeutic settings.
(512) 489-6792 View (512) 489-6792
Photo of Cartrenna Colbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Cartrenna Colbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735  (Online Only)
At times life can feel stressful and overwhelming, however I am here to help you navigate your way through it, to not only survive, but thrive at life. I offer therapy for those who may be experiencing life changes or transitions, having difficulties in their personal relationships, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other challenges that may be affecting your mood or quality of life. My experiences have given me the valuable opportunity to work with people from diverse cultural, ethnic, and sexual backgrounds. In doing so, I provide culturally sensitive therapy in a supportive and safe environment.
At times life can feel stressful and overwhelming, however I am here to help you navigate your way through it, to not only survive, but thrive at life. I offer therapy for those who may be experiencing life changes or transitions, having difficulties in their personal relationships, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other challenges that may be affecting your mood or quality of life. My experiences have given me the valuable opportunity to work with people from diverse cultural, ethnic, and sexual backgrounds. In doing so, I provide culturally sensitive therapy in a supportive and safe environment.
(512) 572-9655 View (512) 572-9655
Photo of Isabel Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Isabel Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78729  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in grief and loss, chronic illnesses and interpersonal issues as well as working with clients who are struggling with anxiety and depression/mood disorders and PTSD.
I have a deep desire to help others find happiness and fulfillment in their lives and to overcome personal obstacles. My passion is to walk alongside those who entrust me with their healing journey. The guidance one receives through counseling is about becoming able to heal one’s self. This journey is often difficult and sometimes even painful, but the results are life changing. It is important to me to collaborate with my clients to create an open and safe environment in which to explore and communicate.
I have extensive experience in grief and loss, chronic illnesses and interpersonal issues as well as working with clients who are struggling with anxiety and depression/mood disorders and PTSD.
I have a deep desire to help others find happiness and fulfillment in their lives and to overcome personal obstacles. My passion is to walk alongside those who entrust me with their healing journey. The guidance one receives through counseling is about becoming able to heal one’s self. This journey is often difficult and sometimes even painful, but the results are life changing. It is important to me to collaborate with my clients to create an open and safe environment in which to explore and communicate.
(512) 710-1774 View (512) 710-1774
Photo of Jessie Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Jessie Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I work with a wide range of clientele, including those dealing with women's and/or men's issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, body image issues/self-love, adverse childhood experiences, and others.
I naturally work from a strengths-based, client-centered perspective and feel that collaboration and rapport are key components in the therapeutic process. My goal is to help clients heal and flourish in their lives. Through deeper emotional exploration, things that seem to keep getting us "stuck" can be examined and worked through, resulting in true healing and change. In our sessions, I work with my clients in exploring thoughts, emotions, experiences, relationships, behaviors, etc. and together we work towards a healthier and happier life.
I work with a wide range of clientele, including those dealing with women's and/or men's issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, body image issues/self-love, adverse childhood experiences, and others.
I naturally work from a strengths-based, client-centered perspective and feel that collaboration and rapport are key components in the therapeutic process. My goal is to help clients heal and flourish in their lives. Through deeper emotional exploration, things that seem to keep getting us "stuck" can be examined and worked through, resulting in true healing and change. In our sessions, I work with my clients in exploring thoughts, emotions, experiences, relationships, behaviors, etc. and together we work towards a healthier and happier life.
(512) 270-2469 View (512) 270-2469
Photo of Alan Rivas (Bilingual), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Alan Rivas (Bilingual)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Feeling adrift or uncertain about your life's purpose? I specialize in providing guidance and support to adults who are grappling with anxiety and depression stemming from feeling stuck or directionless. My passion lies in aiding individuals who may be experiencing emotional turmoil because they haven't yet discovered their true calling.My primary objective is to assist you in navigating the layers of falsehoods, self-deceptions, and fears that seem to exert control over your life. Through this process, you'll gain the confidence to make decisions and embrace bold choices that lead to personal transformation.
Feeling adrift or uncertain about your life's purpose? I specialize in providing guidance and support to adults who are grappling with anxiety and depression stemming from feeling stuck or directionless. My passion lies in aiding individuals who may be experiencing emotional turmoil because they haven't yet discovered their true calling.My primary objective is to assist you in navigating the layers of falsehoods, self-deceptions, and fears that seem to exert control over your life. Through this process, you'll gain the confidence to make decisions and embrace bold choices that lead to personal transformation.
(512) 865-5049 View (512) 865-5049
Photo of Gay Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Gay Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Gay Hunter is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate in partnering with adults to transform their lives. Gay specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma. Gay completed her Master of Divinity at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. She has been a single mother for 40 years with ample experience in child rearing and being supportive of adult children. Her life experiences coupled with her professional experience enable her to build a partnership that will help you transform your life.
Gay Hunter is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate in partnering with adults to transform their lives. Gay specializes in anxiety, depression, and trauma. Gay completed her Master of Divinity at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. She has been a single mother for 40 years with ample experience in child rearing and being supportive of adult children. Her life experiences coupled with her professional experience enable her to build a partnership that will help you transform your life.
(512) 706-9935 View (512) 706-9935
Photo of Austin Community Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Austin Community Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78753  (Online Only)
Kennedy’s focus is allowing individuals to recognize their irrational or negative thoughts/beliefs (Cognitive Distortions), and how their thoughts, expectations, perceptions, and beliefs impact unhealthy emotions such as irritability, frustration, anger, anxiety, or depression which in turn can manifest into maladaptive behavior.
Kennedy M. Sabelko is a master’s level clinical therapist with over 20 years of experience working in the mental health and educational field. Kennedy is currently completing his PhD in Metaphysical Humanist Sciences with a concentration on Quantum Energy Healing. Kennedy’s compassion for helping individuals achieve a better quality of life derives from his own personal, clinical, and cultural experiences.
Kennedy’s focus is allowing individuals to recognize their irrational or negative thoughts/beliefs (Cognitive Distortions), and how their thoughts, expectations, perceptions, and beliefs impact unhealthy emotions such as irritability, frustration, anger, anxiety, or depression which in turn can manifest into maladaptive behavior.
Kennedy M. Sabelko is a master’s level clinical therapist with over 20 years of experience working in the mental health and educational field. Kennedy is currently completing his PhD in Metaphysical Humanist Sciences with a concentration on Quantum Energy Healing. Kennedy’s compassion for helping individuals achieve a better quality of life derives from his own personal, clinical, and cultural experiences.
(970) 293-8464 View (970) 293-8464
Photo of Austin Johnson, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Austin Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
I help create work-life stability, improve job and relationship satisfaction, and build leadership and communication skills. No matter what is ailing you right now - whether burnout, trauma, depression, or conflict - working with a trusted professional can help. There is a path forward.
I help create work-life stability, improve job and relationship satisfaction, and build leadership and communication skills. No matter what is ailing you right now - whether burnout, trauma, depression, or conflict - working with a trusted professional can help. There is a path forward.
(806) 602-9573 View (806) 602-9573
Photo of M Karen Hampton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
M Karen Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I have extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and grief.
Finding a sense of peace and fostering intimate relationships are lifelong goals. Whether these goals seem permanently elusive or temporarily unattainable, I help adults travel forward on this journey. Along with my client, I strive to create a safe place in which to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; increase self-awareness; and develop a more satisfying life. While the leap of faith to engage in therapy can be enormous, I believe that the power of therapy to enrich our lives to be even greater. You may wish to check out my videos on my website.
I have extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and grief.
Finding a sense of peace and fostering intimate relationships are lifelong goals. Whether these goals seem permanently elusive or temporarily unattainable, I help adults travel forward on this journey. Along with my client, I strive to create a safe place in which to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; increase self-awareness; and develop a more satisfying life. While the leap of faith to engage in therapy can be enormous, I believe that the power of therapy to enrich our lives to be even greater. You may wish to check out my videos on my website.
(512) 649-2224 View (512) 649-2224

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.