Photo of Beth Moga, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Beth Moga
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I provide support for anyone experiencing any form of distress, depression, or anxiety. This is often expressed as unhappiness with your life, work, or relationships. Overarching my approach is an interest in the creation of meaning. How do you make sense of your experience? What do you want? How do you navigate life’s challenges and build reserves of flexibility and adaptability? Together we can explore these questions of purpose and direction to create new pathways. In addition to working with individuals; I am also a trained mediator and enjoy working with couples and family members on relationship issues.
I provide support for anyone experiencing any form of distress, depression, or anxiety. This is often expressed as unhappiness with your life, work, or relationships. Overarching my approach is an interest in the creation of meaning. How do you make sense of your experience? What do you want? How do you navigate life’s challenges and build reserves of flexibility and adaptability? Together we can explore these questions of purpose and direction to create new pathways. In addition to working with individuals; I am also a trained mediator and enjoy working with couples and family members on relationship issues.
(206) 300-4412 View (206) 300-4412
Photo of Stephen Rowley, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Stephen Rowley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
I am currently taking new clients on a limited basis. I work with teens and adult individuals. I specialize in trauma, which underlies many psycho-emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. However, I am chiefly interested in working with people experiencing important life transitions and challenges, especially when they feel stuck, confused, or lost. I am available for a short, no-cost phone interview to answer your questions about my practice.
I am currently taking new clients on a limited basis. I work with teens and adult individuals. I specialize in trauma, which underlies many psycho-emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. However, I am chiefly interested in working with people experiencing important life transitions and challenges, especially when they feel stuck, confused, or lost. I am available for a short, no-cost phone interview to answer your questions about my practice.
(206) 312-3187 View (206) 312-3187
Photo of Jane Ellen Curtis, Psychologist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Jane Ellen Curtis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with training from the University of Washington School of Medicine and Utah State University. I offer individual, couples, and family psychotherapy for issues related to depression, anxiety, health concerns, grief, and/or adjustment difficulties due to life changes. I have worked with many successful professionals who require the services of a highly trained doctoral level provider.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with training from the University of Washington School of Medicine and Utah State University. I offer individual, couples, and family psychotherapy for issues related to depression, anxiety, health concerns, grief, and/or adjustment difficulties due to life changes. I have worked with many successful professionals who require the services of a highly trained doctoral level provider.
(206) 922-8838 View (206) 922-8838
Photo of Jean Tzou, Psychologist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Jean Tzou
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, APIT
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
As a generalist, I work with individuals with a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar, and addiction, to life problems in relationships, trauma, grief, loneliness, anger management, stress and career choices, etc... Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience providing individual, couples, group counseling, psychological evaluations, and teaching/training in university settings. My style of therapy is warm, genuine, attentive, and sensitive to clients' unique needs.
As a generalist, I work with individuals with a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar, and addiction, to life problems in relationships, trauma, grief, loneliness, anger management, stress and career choices, etc... Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience providing individual, couples, group counseling, psychological evaluations, and teaching/training in university settings. My style of therapy is warm, genuine, attentive, and sensitive to clients' unique needs.
(312) 698-3095 View (312) 698-3095
Photo of Diane Heald Spengler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Diane Heald Spengler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
If you are a woman in transition, or are feeling disheartened, depressed or stuck, I will give you assistance in identifying and uncovering your strengths, and recovering your joy of life! Or, if you are a member of a couple or family having difficulties, I will offer support and teach communication skills, which can deepen and enhance those relationships closest to you. It is often difficult to identify our stuck places and painful patterns. I have found that talking things through with someone with sound professional training and experience can offer new perspectives and life possibilities, allowing change to happen!
If you are a woman in transition, or are feeling disheartened, depressed or stuck, I will give you assistance in identifying and uncovering your strengths, and recovering your joy of life! Or, if you are a member of a couple or family having difficulties, I will offer support and teach communication skills, which can deepen and enhance those relationships closest to you. It is often difficult to identify our stuck places and painful patterns. I have found that talking things through with someone with sound professional training and experience can offer new perspectives and life possibilities, allowing change to happen!
(206) 823-3856 View (206) 823-3856
Photo of Glyn Deputy - N. W. Family Psychology, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Glyn Deputy - N. W. Family Psychology
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
In addition, Glyn continues to broaden and deepen his expertise in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, psychosis, adjustment disorders, learning and cognitive disorders, and impulse control disorders, as well as cultural and existential concerns.
Glyn Deputy, M.Ed, LMHC, brings a keen awareness of both the necessities and subtleties of surviving our human condition and reaching one’s full potential, particularly when clients are experiencing significant life transitions (e.g., separation, divorce, parent child conflicts, etc.), as well as clinical experience spanning the past 20 years. Glyn has worked with generational family issues in rural and frontier communities, has assisted youth and young adults with many types of disability in pursuing higher education, and has gained exceptional skills in dual diagnosis treatment – both individually and in the family system.
In addition, Glyn continues to broaden and deepen his expertise in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, psychosis, adjustment disorders, learning and cognitive disorders, and impulse control disorders, as well as cultural and existential concerns.
Glyn Deputy, M.Ed, LMHC, brings a keen awareness of both the necessities and subtleties of surviving our human condition and reaching one’s full potential, particularly when clients are experiencing significant life transitions (e.g., separation, divorce, parent child conflicts, etc.), as well as clinical experience spanning the past 20 years. Glyn has worked with generational family issues in rural and frontier communities, has assisted youth and young adults with many types of disability in pursuing higher education, and has gained exceptional skills in dual diagnosis treatment – both individually and in the family system.
(206) 929-4230 View (206) 929-4230
Photo of Bethany Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Bethany Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Areas of special focus include couples' therapy, family communication, depression, anxiety, identity, cultural adjustment, chronic illness, and new parenting.
I am interested in the meanings that you make from your life experiences and the influence that these have on your perspectives of yourself, your relationships, and your future. I find that viewing problems as separate from personhood helps to lessen feelings of guilt and shame so that we can work together in a collaborative environment. My training in family systems theory informs my view of people in the context of their relationships, environment, and culture. I consider it a privilege to work with people to bring about the changes they desire in their lives and relationships.
Areas of special focus include couples' therapy, family communication, depression, anxiety, identity, cultural adjustment, chronic illness, and new parenting.
I am interested in the meanings that you make from your life experiences and the influence that these have on your perspectives of yourself, your relationships, and your future. I find that viewing problems as separate from personhood helps to lessen feelings of guilt and shame so that we can work together in a collaborative environment. My training in family systems theory informs my view of people in the context of their relationships, environment, and culture. I consider it a privilege to work with people to bring about the changes they desire in their lives and relationships.
(253) 248-4519 x5 View (253) 248-4519 x5
Photo of Erin Earle, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Erin Earle
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical experience includes addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions, family-of-origin issues, and eating disorders.
Loving presence is at the heart of my practice. I trust the inner wisdom of each individual and view the therapist-client relationship as a collaboration. We all experience challenging seasons of life. In difficult times, we may realize that our habitual behaviors and patterns of relating to others are out of alignment with our core values. In our work together, I will gently encourage self-inquiry in service of realigning with your wise, authentic self. I believe that the body holds a deep wisdom that each one of us can ultimately learn to trust.
My clinical experience includes addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions, family-of-origin issues, and eating disorders.
Loving presence is at the heart of my practice. I trust the inner wisdom of each individual and view the therapist-client relationship as a collaboration. We all experience challenging seasons of life. In difficult times, we may realize that our habitual behaviors and patterns of relating to others are out of alignment with our core values. In our work together, I will gently encourage self-inquiry in service of realigning with your wise, authentic self. I believe that the body holds a deep wisdom that each one of us can ultimately learn to trust.
(206) 823-2940 View (206) 823-2940
Photo of Justine Joslyn in Bainbridge Island, WA
Justine Joslyn
MA
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
(360) 946-0941 View (360) 946-0941
Photo of Ellen Hresko Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Ellen Hresko Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression; couple/relational conflict; familial conflict; parenting; life-stage transitions; and trauma.
I counsel teens and their parents, as well as adults and couples who are experiencing a wide range of psychological and relationship difficulties due to parent child conflict, major life transitions, grief and loss and recent or historic trauma. My approach is systemic, meaning that I try to understand human problems in terms of the complex set of psychological and social systems in which they are embedded - family, social, cultural, educational and emotional experiences. I have specialized training and experience in working with Couples using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) as well as Anxiety, Depression andtrauma/PTSD.
I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression; couple/relational conflict; familial conflict; parenting; life-stage transitions; and trauma.
I counsel teens and their parents, as well as adults and couples who are experiencing a wide range of psychological and relationship difficulties due to parent child conflict, major life transitions, grief and loss and recent or historic trauma. My approach is systemic, meaning that I try to understand human problems in terms of the complex set of psychological and social systems in which they are embedded - family, social, cultural, educational and emotional experiences. I have specialized training and experience in working with Couples using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) as well as Anxiety, Depression andtrauma/PTSD.
(206) 458-1695 View (206) 458-1695
Photo of Arilda Surridge Ma Lmft Emdr Intensives Couples Marathons And Retreats, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Arilda Surridge Ma Lmft Emdr Intensives Couples Marathons And Retreats
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I welcome you to taking the first step to supporting your individual/couple/family mental/emotional needs. It is a huge step and I am here to support you in your therapeutic process. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive training, and experience working with adults, and couples on a broad range of issues particularly trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and family conflict. In addition to providing therapy, I also lead and organize couples retreats/workshops, therapist retreats (trainings), and Wellness Retreats.
I welcome you to taking the first step to supporting your individual/couple/family mental/emotional needs. It is a huge step and I am here to support you in your therapeutic process. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive training, and experience working with adults, and couples on a broad range of issues particularly trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and family conflict. In addition to providing therapy, I also lead and organize couples retreats/workshops, therapist retreats (trainings), and Wellness Retreats.
(206) 312-1975 View (206) 312-1975
Photo of Shelly Huffman, LMHC, LCPC, LLC, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Shelly Huffman, LMHC, LCPC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I use Somatic Experiencing, effective for depression & anxiety, chronic pain, issues of abuse, trauma, PTSD.
Clients who work with me feel empowered and reassured on their first visit, and they continue with me, because they notice changes happening. For the past 20 years, I've worked in private and group practices, providing counseling and other services to people from many different walks of life. I help people re-evaluate, become closer to a loved one, process difficult decisions or transitions and grieve significant losses. I enjoy helping people become more truthful about themselves and live with integrity. I fiercely protect the privacy and confidentiality of my clients and provide a private, safe setting for our work together.
I use Somatic Experiencing, effective for depression & anxiety, chronic pain, issues of abuse, trauma, PTSD.
Clients who work with me feel empowered and reassured on their first visit, and they continue with me, because they notice changes happening. For the past 20 years, I've worked in private and group practices, providing counseling and other services to people from many different walks of life. I help people re-evaluate, become closer to a loved one, process difficult decisions or transitions and grieve significant losses. I enjoy helping people become more truthful about themselves and live with integrity. I fiercely protect the privacy and confidentiality of my clients and provide a private, safe setting for our work together.
(206) 984-3013 View (206) 984-3013
Photo of Erika R. Dorsey, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Erika R. Dorsey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship and career/work issues.
I provide a safe, supportive environment for you to explore the areas in your life in which you are struggling. We all have challenges, and, at some point, we are ready to experience lasting change and healing. Seeking help takes courage and commitment but can lead to a more meaningful life and overall well being. My approach is based on genuine compassion, understanding and mutual respect. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and would love to help you discover your personal strengths and resources, regaining your inherent vitality for life!
I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship and career/work issues.
I provide a safe, supportive environment for you to explore the areas in your life in which you are struggling. We all have challenges, and, at some point, we are ready to experience lasting change and healing. Seeking help takes courage and commitment but can lead to a more meaningful life and overall well being. My approach is based on genuine compassion, understanding and mutual respect. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and would love to help you discover your personal strengths and resources, regaining your inherent vitality for life!
(586) 838-2129 View (586) 838-2129
Photo of Kathleen Elias, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Kathleen Elias, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Sometimes clients who reach out to me are struggling with identifiable issues - depression, anxiety, addictions, stress, grief, life transitions, or illness. Sometimes they're couples grappling with the fallout of infidelity or suffering from a loss of intimacy. And sometimes new clients don't even know what the problem is. They just know something isn't working. I've been practicing for over thirty years, helping individuals and couples gain a deeper understanding of themselves and each other so they can live whole-heartedly and in the present.
Sometimes clients who reach out to me are struggling with identifiable issues - depression, anxiety, addictions, stress, grief, life transitions, or illness. Sometimes they're couples grappling with the fallout of infidelity or suffering from a loss of intimacy. And sometimes new clients don't even know what the problem is. They just know something isn't working. I've been practicing for over thirty years, helping individuals and couples gain a deeper understanding of themselves and each other so they can live whole-heartedly and in the present.
(206) 502-0920 View (206) 502-0920
Photo of Diane M Sabo, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Diane M Sabo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Waitlist for new clients
I'd love to help you learn new ways to relate to others, care for yourself better, and overcome past pain, in order to have a healthier more peaceful life. Often past trauma, abandonment, addiction, affairs, and loss can leave us feeling hurt and lonely. I offer both traditional and Christian-based counseling, and would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in couples work and have a passion for increasing connection and better communication. I also work with individuals ages 18 and up on past trauma, depression, anxiety, life changes and offer help getting out of destructive patterns and abusive relationships.
I'd love to help you learn new ways to relate to others, care for yourself better, and overcome past pain, in order to have a healthier more peaceful life. Often past trauma, abandonment, addiction, affairs, and loss can leave us feeling hurt and lonely. I offer both traditional and Christian-based counseling, and would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in couples work and have a passion for increasing connection and better communication. I also work with individuals ages 18 and up on past trauma, depression, anxiety, life changes and offer help getting out of destructive patterns and abusive relationships.
(360) 529-4576 View (360) 529-4576
Photo of Georgann Falotico, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Georgann Falotico
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I have a special interest in eating issues as a way to cope with deeper issues: depression, anxiety and fear, life's transitions, recovery and abuse.
What keeps you awake at night, or awakens you suddenly at three AM? Or you have that dreaded feeling of having to wake up and face the worry, or situation again with no resolution. It's not pleasant experiencing these feelings alone, feeling you have no one who can really understand, or partner with you to find some clarity, or answers. If this feels familiar, I hope you will consider contacting me. I'd be honored to partner with you, to see if together we can find your joy, clarity and the confidence to be all that you are meant to be.
I have a special interest in eating issues as a way to cope with deeper issues: depression, anxiety and fear, life's transitions, recovery and abuse.
What keeps you awake at night, or awakens you suddenly at three AM? Or you have that dreaded feeling of having to wake up and face the worry, or situation again with no resolution. It's not pleasant experiencing these feelings alone, feeling you have no one who can really understand, or partner with you to find some clarity, or answers. If this feels familiar, I hope you will consider contacting me. I'd be honored to partner with you, to see if together we can find your joy, clarity and the confidence to be all that you are meant to be.
(360) 389-3972 View (360) 389-3972
Photo of Susan Sweetwater, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Susan Sweetwater
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BFA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I may lead you in meditation or guided visualization to help you bring soothing to anxious states and vitality to depressed states.
I offer compassion-based therapy which focuses on what's right and good in you. I team with clients to create a mutual, shared space of compassion, caring and healing. In this space, problems are explored together, losses and hurts are held together. Where there is trauma, it is transformed through body-based somatic therapy and EMDR. I bring a wide array of therapeutic techniques, from ancient wisdom traditions to cutting edge neurobiology, to support your healing and provide practical skills for reaching your goals. Whatever difficulties you face - healing is the rule, not the exception. Private Pay; $160 (some sliding scale)
I may lead you in meditation or guided visualization to help you bring soothing to anxious states and vitality to depressed states.
I offer compassion-based therapy which focuses on what's right and good in you. I team with clients to create a mutual, shared space of compassion, caring and healing. In this space, problems are explored together, losses and hurts are held together. Where there is trauma, it is transformed through body-based somatic therapy and EMDR. I bring a wide array of therapeutic techniques, from ancient wisdom traditions to cutting edge neurobiology, to support your healing and provide practical skills for reaching your goals. Whatever difficulties you face - healing is the rule, not the exception. Private Pay; $160 (some sliding scale)
(360) 529-4842 View (360) 529-4842
Photo of Dr. Renee Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Dr. Renee Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, EMDR, Equine, IFS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms from unresolved childhood trauma? You may be experiencing PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, behavioral addictions, or substance use. Perhaps you are going through a major life change or crisis & experiencing trauma triggers that are now wreaking havoc in your life & in significant relationships. I work with those who have experienced trauma at some time in their life. Together, we'll explore how & where the trauma became dysfunctionally stored & we will also explore those Parts that are desperately trying to protect the Self from further distress or pain.
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms from unresolved childhood trauma? You may be experiencing PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, behavioral addictions, or substance use. Perhaps you are going through a major life change or crisis & experiencing trauma triggers that are now wreaking havoc in your life & in significant relationships. I work with those who have experienced trauma at some time in their life. Together, we'll explore how & where the trauma became dysfunctionally stored & we will also explore those Parts that are desperately trying to protect the Self from further distress or pain.
(206) 278-1345 View (206) 278-1345
Photo of Alex Kerney - N. W. Family Psychology, Counselor in Bainbridge Island, WA
Alex Kerney - N. W. Family Psychology
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Alexandra Kerney, LMHCA, graduated from Central Washington University with a B.A. in Psychology and graduated from Seattle Pacific University with an M.Ed. in School Counseling. Alex uses evidence-based practices and strength-based approaches when working with child, adolescent, and young adult clients, and enjoys helping people overcome depression, anxiety, peer conflicts, low self-esteem, and bullying.
Alexandra Kerney, LMHCA, graduated from Central Washington University with a B.A. in Psychology and graduated from Seattle Pacific University with an M.Ed. in School Counseling. Alex uses evidence-based practices and strength-based approaches when working with child, adolescent, and young adult clients, and enjoys helping people overcome depression, anxiety, peer conflicts, low self-esteem, and bullying.
(206) 966-4877 View (206) 966-4877
Photo of Shannon Tallon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bainbridge Island, WA
Shannon Tallon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Compassion and humor is what you will experience in my office. I cultivate a safe place for you to be your authentic and vulnerable self as we work together to achieve your therapeutic goals. My clients consist of individuals ranging from 15 years old - 75 years old, with a wide array of issues related to communication, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, conflict management, intimacy, trauma, and stress. My Master's in Counseling and post-graduate certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy have equipped me to effectively and compassionately work with people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Compassion and humor is what you will experience in my office. I cultivate a safe place for you to be your authentic and vulnerable self as we work together to achieve your therapeutic goals. My clients consist of individuals ranging from 15 years old - 75 years old, with a wide array of issues related to communication, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, conflict management, intimacy, trauma, and stress. My Master's in Counseling and post-graduate certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy have equipped me to effectively and compassionately work with people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
(360) 233-8072 View (360) 233-8072

See more therapy options for Bainbridge Island

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.