Photo of Julia C Stacy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Julia C Stacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, past trauma, life transitions, narcissistic abuse and relationship challenges.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed right now? Could you really use more positive support to help empower you to create the fulfilling life you deserve? With over 25 years of experience, I continue to be passionate about helping my clients to accomplish just that! I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral approach and my therapeutic environment is a safe and accepting space filled with curiosity, humor and compassion. With my extensive experience and training, you can trust that you are in the rights hands from the get-go. Be ready to learn how to overcome what's holding you back so you are able to reach all of your goals ASAP!
I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, past trauma, life transitions, narcissistic abuse and relationship challenges.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed right now? Could you really use more positive support to help empower you to create the fulfilling life you deserve? With over 25 years of experience, I continue to be passionate about helping my clients to accomplish just that! I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral approach and my therapeutic environment is a safe and accepting space filled with curiosity, humor and compassion. With my extensive experience and training, you can trust that you are in the rights hands from the get-go. Be ready to learn how to overcome what's holding you back so you are able to reach all of your goals ASAP!
(972) 325-5280 View (972) 325-5280
Photo of Donna Keehn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Donna Keehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, SAP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75234
My clinical background includes a robust, private practice with in depth expertise in working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, anger management, relationships and attachment disorders. In addition, I am also a SAP for the DOT, a CISM credentialed provider, with a focus on individual and mass community trauma, and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I held significant corporate positions at a Fortune 500 Company (IBM) and partnered with one of America's Largest Private Companies (New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc).
My clinical background includes a robust, private practice with in depth expertise in working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, anger management, relationships and attachment disorders. In addition, I am also a SAP for the DOT, a CISM credentialed provider, with a focus on individual and mass community trauma, and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I held significant corporate positions at a Fortune 500 Company (IBM) and partnered with one of America's Largest Private Companies (New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc).
(214) 239-3454 View (214) 239-3454
Photo of Dennis Burchette, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Dennis Burchette
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Burchette has extensive experience treating clients with various concerns including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, OCD, trauma, pain management, and relationship and behavioral difficulties.
Dr. Burchette is a Licensed Psychologist with specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He brings a wealth of experience through his background of working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, and adults in both clinical and medical settings. Dr. Burchette received his doctoral degree from the APA-accredited Clinical Psychology program at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. During his graduate training, he worked with a range of patients presenting with comorbid physical and mental health concerns in a variety of settings.
Burchette has extensive experience treating clients with various concerns including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, OCD, trauma, pain management, and relationship and behavioral difficulties.
Dr. Burchette is a Licensed Psychologist with specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He brings a wealth of experience through his background of working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, and adults in both clinical and medical settings. Dr. Burchette received his doctoral degree from the APA-accredited Clinical Psychology program at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. During his graduate training, he worked with a range of patients presenting with comorbid physical and mental health concerns in a variety of settings.
(214) 247-7919 View (214) 247-7919
Photo of Scott M Nelson, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Scott M Nelson, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Problems in love and work, as well as symptoms of depression and anxiety, often lead people to seek therapy. Psychotherapy allows for the safe exploration of painful problems and resolution of conflicts underlying them. As trust develops, individuals explore their inner feelings related to anger, intimacy, and spirituality. Before treatment, these feelings are frequently blocked and unavailable in useful ways. Psychotherapy helps individuals view themselves in new ways. Psychotherapy can be an emotional education resulting in lasting changes. Therapy frequently ends increased personal freedom to make wise choices for oneself in the context of one's community.
Problems in love and work, as well as symptoms of depression and anxiety, often lead people to seek therapy. Psychotherapy allows for the safe exploration of painful problems and resolution of conflicts underlying them. As trust develops, individuals explore their inner feelings related to anger, intimacy, and spirituality. Before treatment, these feelings are frequently blocked and unavailable in useful ways. Psychotherapy helps individuals view themselves in new ways. Psychotherapy can be an emotional education resulting in lasting changes. Therapy frequently ends increased personal freedom to make wise choices for oneself in the context of one's community.
(972) 236-5861 View (972) 236-5861
Photo of Armand G Howard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Armand G Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201
Many of my clients want to experience self-realization/actualization. Most want richer relationships, more confidence in the workplace and a greater sense of joy in life. Some want to improve the management of daily stress and overcome symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. Many simply want support in reaching optimal physical health & emotional wellbeing.
Many of my clients want to experience self-realization/actualization. Most want richer relationships, more confidence in the workplace and a greater sense of joy in life. Some want to improve the management of daily stress and overcome symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. Many simply want support in reaching optimal physical health & emotional wellbeing.
(214) 740-4796 View (214) 740-4796
Photo of Tessa Knickerbocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Tessa Knickerbocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, Tessa K, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients who are dealing with trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, marital and premarital issues, prenatal and postpartum issues, divorce and other mental health struggles.
We all have a story that impacts who we are today. Part of your journey to discovery and healing is telling that story. I provide a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to share, explore, and process life's events on their path to growth and healing. No two people are alike and the work we do will reflect that. My approach is a collaborative process that will help guide you, move you forward, and identify obstacles that are keeping you from creating genuine, lasting change. My view of the therapeutic relationship is not limited to just the client but is a holistic picture of the entire family system.
I have experience working with clients who are dealing with trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, marital and premarital issues, prenatal and postpartum issues, divorce and other mental health struggles.
We all have a story that impacts who we are today. Part of your journey to discovery and healing is telling that story. I provide a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to share, explore, and process life's events on their path to growth and healing. No two people are alike and the work we do will reflect that. My approach is a collaborative process that will help guide you, move you forward, and identify obstacles that are keeping you from creating genuine, lasting change. My view of the therapeutic relationship is not limited to just the client but is a holistic picture of the entire family system.
(214) 367-6543 View (214) 367-6543
Photo of Heather Robbins, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Heather Robbins
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240  (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment for depression and anxiety. My doctorate in clinical psychology is from UT Southwestern and I have successfully treated hundreds of patients. I enjoy working with clients who wish to improve their quality of life in all areas. In treatment with me, you can generally expect your distressing symptoms to decrease quickly. We will also work together to set short and long term goals. If you have been in therapy before, I will help you gather and build on your previous successes. In addition, I am an expert in offering new ideas and strategies to truly address and solve long standing problems.
I specialize in treatment for depression and anxiety. My doctorate in clinical psychology is from UT Southwestern and I have successfully treated hundreds of patients. I enjoy working with clients who wish to improve their quality of life in all areas. In treatment with me, you can generally expect your distressing symptoms to decrease quickly. We will also work together to set short and long term goals. If you have been in therapy before, I will help you gather and build on your previous successes. In addition, I am an expert in offering new ideas and strategies to truly address and solve long standing problems.
(469) 530-3452 View (469) 530-3452
Photo of Amera Sergie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Amera Sergie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CHST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75215
I believe that my role is to help you harness your inner knowledge and strength so that you can be the best version of yourself possible. Since my goal is to create an individualized counseling experience, I take an eclectic approach, drawing from different schools of thought when working with my clients. Some of my areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, play therapy, parenting, trauma, domestic abuse, communication skills building, acculturation issues, anger management, stress management, personal growth, and self-esteem building.
I believe that my role is to help you harness your inner knowledge and strength so that you can be the best version of yourself possible. Since my goal is to create an individualized counseling experience, I take an eclectic approach, drawing from different schools of thought when working with my clients. Some of my areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, play therapy, parenting, trauma, domestic abuse, communication skills building, acculturation issues, anger management, stress management, personal growth, and self-esteem building.
(214) 717-5790 View (214) 717-5790
Photo of Jeavoni Rose Alejandre, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Jeavoni Rose Alejandre
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
I have experience working with and diagnosing anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, as well as personality disorders, and more.
It’s hard to get started and find someone you trust, someone you want to work with, who feels like a good fit. I’m guessing you’ve found yourself here because you're in pain, and there’s a part of you that thinks therapy could help. Maybe your life has become difficult to keep up with, you feel numb or totally overwhelmed. Maybe your thoughts race and you can't control them like you used to, or maybe you are struggling with relationships. While it's hard to get started, and you're likely hesitant or nervous about the prospect of opening up, you may be here because a part of you is ready.
I have experience working with and diagnosing anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, as well as personality disorders, and more.
It’s hard to get started and find someone you trust, someone you want to work with, who feels like a good fit. I’m guessing you’ve found yourself here because you're in pain, and there’s a part of you that thinks therapy could help. Maybe your life has become difficult to keep up with, you feel numb or totally overwhelmed. Maybe your thoughts race and you can't control them like you used to, or maybe you are struggling with relationships. While it's hard to get started, and you're likely hesitant or nervous about the prospect of opening up, you may be here because a part of you is ready.
(214) 239-0197 View (214) 239-0197
Photo of Gabrielle Larson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Gabrielle Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248
I have treated various clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, sexual assault, relationship conflicts, grief, life transitions, and more.
Hello! My name is Gabrielle "Gaby" Larson. I approach therapy from a humanistic perspective, where I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques including mindfulness, expressive arts, and highlighting strengths and resources individuals possess. I work to create a therapeutic environment that is comfortable and allows individuals to feel safe exploring their vulnerabilities. Each individual is different and deserves unique care based on their needs. As a humanistic therapist, I focus on acknowledging different identities clients hold and how these impact them on a personal and institutionalized level.
I have treated various clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, sexual assault, relationship conflicts, grief, life transitions, and more.
Hello! My name is Gabrielle "Gaby" Larson. I approach therapy from a humanistic perspective, where I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques including mindfulness, expressive arts, and highlighting strengths and resources individuals possess. I work to create a therapeutic environment that is comfortable and allows individuals to feel safe exploring their vulnerabilities. Each individual is different and deserves unique care based on their needs. As a humanistic therapist, I focus on acknowledging different identities clients hold and how these impact them on a personal and institutionalized level.
(214) 480-4860 View (214) 480-4860
Photo of Gloria Ester Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Gloria Ester Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a variety of problems like families involved with CPS, parenting skills, mental illness, addiction treatment for individuals & their families, unemployed individuals (career counseling), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anger issues, bullying, marital problems, self-injury, abuse, grief, & many more.
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a variety of problems like families involved with CPS, parenting skills, mental illness, addiction treatment for individuals & their families, unemployed individuals (career counseling), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anger issues, bullying, marital problems, self-injury, abuse, grief, & many more.
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
(325) 221-2847 View (325) 221-2847
Photo of Alexa Marrach, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Alexa Marrach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
I have extensive experience working with people coping with different types of issues ranging from mild adjustment difficulties to chronic and severe psychosis. I have worked with clients in various treatment settings, including out-patient clinics, a university counseling center, a partial hospitalization program, nursing homes, psychiatric in-patient treatment, residential substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice. My areas of specialization include relationship issues, loss / grief, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and post-partum adjustment. In addition, I treat both individuals and couples.
I have extensive experience working with people coping with different types of issues ranging from mild adjustment difficulties to chronic and severe psychosis. I have worked with clients in various treatment settings, including out-patient clinics, a university counseling center, a partial hospitalization program, nursing homes, psychiatric in-patient treatment, residential substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice. My areas of specialization include relationship issues, loss / grief, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and post-partum adjustment. In addition, I treat both individuals and couples.
(214) 519-8641 View (214) 519-8641
Photo of Don Hays PhD, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Don Hays PhD, LPC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
I am a licensed counselor and marriage and family therapist with 34 years experience and am equally skilled in dealing with individuals and couples. The problems I deal with most commonly are anxiety, depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, individual growth, midlife issues, relationship problems, anger management, conflict negotiation skills, divorce adjustment, blended families and parenting issues. I provide Christian counseling if requested. When working with couples I use John Gottman's research based model for marriage counseling coupled with key concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
(469) 253-7227 View (469) 253-7227
Photo of Mary Ellen Davison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Mary Ellen Davison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and unhealthy relational patterns, helping them to identify and change the obstacles and patterns that are getting in their way. Clients often come in feeling like life is overwhelming and they are not managing work, school, friendships and relationships well, despite their best intentions and efforts. Often these patterns are so ingrained that we are not aware of another way of interacting or seeing our core beliefs. Therapy can increase insight and help to resolve and heal the underlying issues, creating the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and unhealthy relational patterns, helping them to identify and change the obstacles and patterns that are getting in their way. Clients often come in feeling like life is overwhelming and they are not managing work, school, friendships and relationships well, despite their best intentions and efforts. Often these patterns are so ingrained that we are not aware of another way of interacting or seeing our core beliefs. Therapy can increase insight and help to resolve and heal the underlying issues, creating the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
(214) 692-2281 View (214) 692-2281
Photo of Debra Arseneaux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Debra Arseneaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
I specialize in a wide variety of issues, although a large percentage of my therapy work is in anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, grief and sexual/relational issues.
For best and quickest response, email me! Phone calls are difficult to return in a timely manner with my schedule. My clients range in a variety of needs and challenges, and my experience across a diverse demographic gives me the opportunity to help people in most situations to recover, heal and overcome issues in their lives. I enjoy helping people transform their lives in both reactive and proactive ways, and look forward to helping you meet your goals.
I specialize in a wide variety of issues, although a large percentage of my therapy work is in anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, grief and sexual/relational issues.
For best and quickest response, email me! Phone calls are difficult to return in a timely manner with my schedule. My clients range in a variety of needs and challenges, and my experience across a diverse demographic gives me the opportunity to help people in most situations to recover, heal and overcome issues in their lives. I enjoy helping people transform their lives in both reactive and proactive ways, and look forward to helping you meet your goals.
(254) 232-5657 View (254) 232-5657
Photo of Aaron Hands, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Aaron Hands
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
As a licensed psychologist, I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults, specializing in the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, learning difficulties, social dysfunction, and trauma. I use various evidence-based practices in treatment, primarily employing psychodynamic techniques and drawing upon cognitive-behavioral strategies as necessary. I believe in an integrative approach to therapy, one in which treatment is uniquely tailored to best address the needs of the individual or family.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults, specializing in the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, learning difficulties, social dysfunction, and trauma. I use various evidence-based practices in treatment, primarily employing psychodynamic techniques and drawing upon cognitive-behavioral strategies as necessary. I believe in an integrative approach to therapy, one in which treatment is uniquely tailored to best address the needs of the individual or family.
(469) 416-3318 View (469) 416-3318
Photo of Monica Gutierrez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Monica Gutierrez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and trauma, with a focus on women's mental health. Holding extensive experience helping college students and young adults through life transitions, processing trauma, stress management, and relationship difficulties, I provide a safe space to explore emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.
Welcome to my practice! I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and trauma, with a focus on women's mental health. Holding extensive experience helping college students and young adults through life transitions, processing trauma, stress management, and relationship difficulties, I provide a safe space to explore emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.
(512) 359-3084 View (512) 359-3084
Photo of Jean Lyons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Jean Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Currently you may choose to receive telehealth or in person sessions if you have completed a Covid vaccine. If you are feeling anxious and/or depressed, I can teach you ways to take control of your thoughts and feelings. Thoughts can negatively impact behavior if not recognized and redirected. Previous life expriences can disrupt success in various aspects of life. My multitude of techniques including cognitive behavior therapy, meditation and EMDR are at your disposal to assist in your journey. I practice and teach meditation, a valuable tool for taming thoughts.
Currently you may choose to receive telehealth or in person sessions if you have completed a Covid vaccine. If you are feeling anxious and/or depressed, I can teach you ways to take control of your thoughts and feelings. Thoughts can negatively impact behavior if not recognized and redirected. Previous life expriences can disrupt success in various aspects of life. My multitude of techniques including cognitive behavior therapy, meditation and EMDR are at your disposal to assist in your journey. I practice and teach meditation, a valuable tool for taming thoughts.
(214) 463-2336 View (214) 463-2336
Photo of Cynthia Bracamontes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Cynthia Bracamontes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is a blend of various evidence-based modalities, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Psychodynamic insights, mindfulness practices, and humanistic principles, sessions will be a collaborative exploration aimed at fostering self-awareness, resilience, and positive change. Whether someone is grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal development, I aim to provide a safe space for self-discovery and healing. Together, we will work towards unlocking your inner strengths, identifying coping strategies, and fostering a deeper understanding of the self.
My therapeutic style is a blend of various evidence-based modalities, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Psychodynamic insights, mindfulness practices, and humanistic principles, sessions will be a collaborative exploration aimed at fostering self-awareness, resilience, and positive change. Whether someone is grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal development, I aim to provide a safe space for self-discovery and healing. Together, we will work towards unlocking your inner strengths, identifying coping strategies, and fostering a deeper understanding of the self.
(737) 302-6747 View (737) 302-6747
Photo of Teresa Tribett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Teresa Tribett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
I have over 15 years of experience treating those struggling with depression, trauma disorders, anxiety related disorders, mood disorders to include bipolar disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem, and systematic family conflict to include parenting issues.
My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, a great listener, honest, and informed. I find great value in creating a foundation of trust and comfortability so my clients can work to meet their therapeutic goals. Counseling is most effective when the client feels accepted and believes the therapist genuinely cares about the topics discussed during session. It is a privilege to be a part of one's journey to improve, change, or maintain aspects in their life. I truly care about each of my client's health and well-being.
(214) 833-8301 View (214) 833-8301
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.