Photo of Michael R Duryea, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael R Duryea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping couples, families, and individuals navigate a variety of challenges and struggles, including anxiety, OCD, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and poly friendly. My therapeutic approach is grounded in humanistic principles, and I utilize a range of evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and experiential techniques to help my clients achieve their goals. I am also informed by the latest research from the Gottman Institute, which focuses on the health and longevity of relationships.
As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping couples, families, and individuals navigate a variety of challenges and struggles, including anxiety, OCD, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and poly friendly. My therapeutic approach is grounded in humanistic principles, and I utilize a range of evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and experiential techniques to help my clients achieve their goals. I am also informed by the latest research from the Gottman Institute, which focuses on the health and longevity of relationships.
(206) 593-3442 View (206) 593-3442
Photo of Matthew A Johnson, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Matthew A Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Chehalis, WA 98532
I have worked in the Mental Health Field for 42 years. I've been a Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 29 of those 42 years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families. I work with clients of all ages who struggle with ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), PTSD, Alcohol/Drug Addictions, Family/Parenting, Marital, Sex Abuse, Sexual Addiction, Career Concerns, Self-Esteem Issues, Spirituality Issues, Law Enforcement Personnel Issues, Military Personnel Issues, Athletics, and much more.
I have worked in the Mental Health Field for 42 years. I've been a Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 29 of those 42 years. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families. I work with clients of all ages who struggle with ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), PTSD, Alcohol/Drug Addictions, Family/Parenting, Marital, Sex Abuse, Sexual Addiction, Career Concerns, Self-Esteem Issues, Spirituality Issues, Law Enforcement Personnel Issues, Military Personnel Issues, Athletics, and much more.
(360) 226-7339 View (360) 226-7339
Photo of Karina Anderson - Renewed Hope - Karina Anderson, MSW, LICSW, MHP, EMDR, CSAT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renewed Hope - Karina Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MHP, EMDR, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
With unconditional acceptance and positive regard, I welcome my clients into a judgement-free and safe space. Whether you're dealing with anger, anxiety, a death, depression, discrimination, life stressors, parenting challenges, relationship problems, or trauma, hope and healing is possible and within reach.
With unconditional acceptance and positive regard, I welcome my clients into a judgement-free and safe space. Whether you're dealing with anger, anxiety, a death, depression, discrimination, life stressors, parenting challenges, relationship problems, or trauma, hope and healing is possible and within reach.
(509) 869-2974 View (509) 869-2974
Photo of Nara Kim, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Nara Kim
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people overcome the challenges of trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Are you looking for a non-judgmental environment where you can feel seen, heard, and empowered to make positive changes? If so, I invite you to reach out. My mission is to help clients transform their lives by equipping them with practical tools and a belief in their own capacity for change. I work with clients to explore past patterns, address current concerns, and cultivate a healthier mindset.
I specialize in helping people overcome the challenges of trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Are you looking for a non-judgmental environment where you can feel seen, heard, and empowered to make positive changes? If so, I invite you to reach out. My mission is to help clients transform their lives by equipping them with practical tools and a belief in their own capacity for change. I work with clients to explore past patterns, address current concerns, and cultivate a healthier mindset.
(509) 282-5731 View (509) 282-5731
Photo of Debbie L Shelton - Good Thinking Therapy, LMHC, MSW, SUDP, Counselor
Good Thinking Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, MSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
Washougal, WA 98671
My specialties include depression, anxiety, grief, couples, family, trauma, and addictions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Addictions Counselor in Washington. I have many years experience and my counseling is rooted in a humanistic, person-centered holistic approach within an Interpersonal Psychotherapy that focuses on challenges within relationships. Whether we realize it or not relationships are at the center of who we are as human beings; they encompass our hopes, dreams and future, as well as our biggest challenges, fears and disappointments. My philosophy for therapy is focused on building a compassionate, welcoming, and engaging person-centered therapeutic relationship for each of my clients.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, grief, couples, family, trauma, and addictions.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Addictions Counselor in Washington. I have many years experience and my counseling is rooted in a humanistic, person-centered holistic approach within an Interpersonal Psychotherapy that focuses on challenges within relationships. Whether we realize it or not relationships are at the center of who we are as human beings; they encompass our hopes, dreams and future, as well as our biggest challenges, fears and disappointments. My philosophy for therapy is focused on building a compassionate, welcoming, and engaging person-centered therapeutic relationship for each of my clients.
(360) 375-0233 View (360) 375-0233
Photo of Marrianne Schumacher, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Marrianne Schumacher
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Tumwater, WA 98512
The relationships that we put so much work into with those that we love are often the same relationships that cause the most hurt. Feelings of disappointment, distress, hurt, anxiety, and depression are part of our life experience- but we don’t have to stay there. The choice is yours to make. I have learned through life experience that crisis events happen, problems arise, and change is really difficult, but it is so worth it!
The relationships that we put so much work into with those that we love are often the same relationships that cause the most hurt. Feelings of disappointment, distress, hurt, anxiety, and depression are part of our life experience- but we don’t have to stay there. The choice is yours to make. I have learned through life experience that crisis events happen, problems arise, and change is really difficult, but it is so worth it!
(360) 401-8526 View (360) 401-8526
Photo of George Ankuta, PhD, Psychologist
George Ankuta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy for anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
My approach involves meeting each individual person where they are when they start therapy and forming a warn collaborative relationship. I provide a safe and comfortable environment in which people can explore the concerns that brought them into psychotherapy. Relationships are complex and people often want to understand more about how they interact with others and evolve in a way that promotes having better relationships.
I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy for anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
My approach involves meeting each individual person where they are when they start therapy and forming a warn collaborative relationship. I provide a safe and comfortable environment in which people can explore the concerns that brought them into psychotherapy. Relationships are complex and people often want to understand more about how they interact with others and evolve in a way that promotes having better relationships.
(206) 558-9729 View (206) 558-9729
Photo of Derek Cooper, LMHC, Counselor
Derek Cooper
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Derek Cooper, LMHC, is a therapist at the Thriving Center of Psychology. He works with a wide range of presenting challenges, including addiction, identity crises, self-esteem/confidence issues, emotion/stress management, and trauma, in addition to working with anxiety and depression. As an Afro-Caribbean who takes pride in his heritage, he brings a multicultural perspective to his work and has extensive experience with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities. He has particular expertise in working with people of color and the LGBTQIA community.
Derek Cooper, LMHC, is a therapist at the Thriving Center of Psychology. He works with a wide range of presenting challenges, including addiction, identity crises, self-esteem/confidence issues, emotion/stress management, and trauma, in addition to working with anxiety and depression. As an Afro-Caribbean who takes pride in his heritage, he brings a multicultural perspective to his work and has extensive experience with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities. He has particular expertise in working with people of color and the LGBTQIA community.
(206) 208-8812 View (206) 208-8812
Photo of Ken Urie - Mill Creek Family Services - Counseling Group, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Mill Creek Family Services - Counseling Group
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98012
We help our clients develop real-life solutions to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship turmoil and other life struggles.
Our services are designed to help you and the ones you love overcome personal, relationship and family difficulties. Whether you are experiencing challenges in your personal relationships, or struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or addictions, we are here for you. We help you develop skills and insights that can immediately make a positive difference in your life. We know that everybody needs help through tough times. Our Mill Creek Family Services counselors are here for you, helping you get your life back on track.
We help our clients develop real-life solutions to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship turmoil and other life struggles.
Our services are designed to help you and the ones you love overcome personal, relationship and family difficulties. Whether you are experiencing challenges in your personal relationships, or struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or addictions, we are here for you. We help you develop skills and insights that can immediately make a positive difference in your life. We know that everybody needs help through tough times. Our Mill Creek Family Services counselors are here for you, helping you get your life back on track.
(425) 357-9111 x1 View (425) 357-9111 x1
Photo of Andrew Duffy Fontana, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Andrew Duffy Fontana
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Therapy offers something unique: a space set aside for the sole purpose of getting to know your life. Many seek therapy out of the desire for change. As hopeless as a life or relationship can feel, the desire for change is enough to begin working towards something new. Therapy can be a great aid in this effort. Your struggles with anxiety, depression, sexuality, relationships, feeling lost and disconnected - are overwhelming to face alone. Through therapy, I believe these struggles can be bridges of connection, to life and those you love.
Therapy offers something unique: a space set aside for the sole purpose of getting to know your life. Many seek therapy out of the desire for change. As hopeless as a life or relationship can feel, the desire for change is enough to begin working towards something new. Therapy can be a great aid in this effort. Your struggles with anxiety, depression, sexuality, relationships, feeling lost and disconnected - are overwhelming to face alone. Through therapy, I believe these struggles can be bridges of connection, to life and those you love.
(206) 429-6829 View (206) 429-6829
Photo of Ali Joy Sideroff, MA, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ali Joy Sideroff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
EMDR efficiently addresses multiple issues including PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-criticism, traumatic incidences, connection and attachment challenges, addictive behaviors, feeling stuck and powerless, bereavement, medical issues and others.
Support for depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship struggles with mindfulness. Clear obstacles that obstruct authenticity and peace. We may work through past traumas that shape your experience or address present issues from a solution-focused perspective to develop tools with application to daily life. I work holistically which means I'm interested in you as a whole person, including the physical, emotional, mental, psychosocial, spiritual and other components. Expertise in LGBTQ+ communities and straight clientele. In-person Seattle, virtual anywhere in California and Washington.
EMDR efficiently addresses multiple issues including PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-criticism, traumatic incidences, connection and attachment challenges, addictive behaviors, feeling stuck and powerless, bereavement, medical issues and others.
Support for depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship struggles with mindfulness. Clear obstacles that obstruct authenticity and peace. We may work through past traumas that shape your experience or address present issues from a solution-focused perspective to develop tools with application to daily life. I work holistically which means I'm interested in you as a whole person, including the physical, emotional, mental, psychosocial, spiritual and other components. Expertise in LGBTQ+ communities and straight clientele. In-person Seattle, virtual anywhere in California and Washington.
(415) 799-8168 View (415) 799-8168
Photo of Teresa A Talley, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Teresa A Talley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98072
We all want to be seen and understood and at the same time are afraid of what we and others will find. We don't trust ourselves or our decisions. We suffer from anxiety, depression, traumas and a myriad of other relational issues. In counseling we learn to understand ourselves and others by telling our stories well. As a greek philosopher once said, "An unexamined life isn't worth living". When we learn to examine ourselves with curiosity, compassion, and truth our life becomes clear hopeful and fullfilling.
We all want to be seen and understood and at the same time are afraid of what we and others will find. We don't trust ourselves or our decisions. We suffer from anxiety, depression, traumas and a myriad of other relational issues. In counseling we learn to understand ourselves and others by telling our stories well. As a greek philosopher once said, "An unexamined life isn't worth living". When we learn to examine ourselves with curiosity, compassion, and truth our life becomes clear hopeful and fullfilling.
(425) 954-3822 View (425) 954-3822
Photo of Susan Keene, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Keene
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I treat clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and who are survivors of trauma.
I am currently accepting new clients! I work through telehealth only, You are the expert on your own life. But, when life does not follow your best laid plans, you sometimes need help to work through the changes to become stronger than before. In the space we create together, you can examine your life journey and find ways to use your strengths to make a better life. In my practice, I use a strengths-based approach for individual therapy that is appropriate for adults of all genders, orientations, and ages. Together, I can to help you with life changes, sexuality, relationships, and self esteem.
I treat clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and who are survivors of trauma.
I am currently accepting new clients! I work through telehealth only, You are the expert on your own life. But, when life does not follow your best laid plans, you sometimes need help to work through the changes to become stronger than before. In the space we create together, you can examine your life journey and find ways to use your strengths to make a better life. In my practice, I use a strengths-based approach for individual therapy that is appropriate for adults of all genders, orientations, and ages. Together, I can to help you with life changes, sexuality, relationships, and self esteem.
(206) 207-3024 View (206) 207-3024
Photo of Mathew Bean - Genuine Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Genuine Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I commonly help with career counseling, stress, depression, divorce, marriage, infidelity, addiction, self-esteem, parenting, teens, men's issues, spirituality, family relationships and finance.
Entrepreneur, relationship and life transition specialist, naturalist, builder, father, husband and community builder all describe me. I am great at helping people with life transitions, work life balance, addiction, trauma, relationships and divorce. I am an entrepreneur, craftsman, part time stay at home dad and outdoorsman. People feel comfortable working with me because I believe in the good in them and because my experience working outside of therapy helps me to understand a wide range of individuals and families.
I commonly help with career counseling, stress, depression, divorce, marriage, infidelity, addiction, self-esteem, parenting, teens, men's issues, spirituality, family relationships and finance.
Entrepreneur, relationship and life transition specialist, naturalist, builder, father, husband and community builder all describe me. I am great at helping people with life transitions, work life balance, addiction, trauma, relationships and divorce. I am an entrepreneur, craftsman, part time stay at home dad and outdoorsman. People feel comfortable working with me because I believe in the good in them and because my experience working outside of therapy helps me to understand a wide range of individuals and families.
(253) 447-6784 View (253) 447-6784
Photo of Sherri Davidson (Hope Unfolds Therapy), MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sherri Davidson (Hope Unfolds Therapy)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marysville, WA 98270
You are here because you're looking for help - anxiety, depression, life's transitions, or just a final attempt to “make it better.” I am here to sit with you, hear your story, and look at what's not serving you. While I work best with those who lead with openness, curiosity and a true desire for personal growth, I also recognize folx show up in different places in life's emotional experience. I am able to suspend judgment because I believe in you. I will help you find your own strength and amplify it in your life for the better. Therapy is a journey back to a place of hope and belonging, and it is my honor to join you.
You are here because you're looking for help - anxiety, depression, life's transitions, or just a final attempt to “make it better.” I am here to sit with you, hear your story, and look at what's not serving you. While I work best with those who lead with openness, curiosity and a true desire for personal growth, I also recognize folx show up in different places in life's emotional experience. I am able to suspend judgment because I believe in you. I will help you find your own strength and amplify it in your life for the better. Therapy is a journey back to a place of hope and belonging, and it is my honor to join you.
(425) 537-7945 View (425) 537-7945
Photo of Mollie Player, LMHC, Counselor
Mollie Player
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues and insomnia and am trained in CBT-I.
I'm a solution-focused, results-oriented counselor with a passion for helping people in the most efficient yet comprehensive manner possible. My clients and I identify opportunities for growth in all three aspects of mental health: behaviors, thoughts and emotions. I then suggest evidence-based treatment methods to match our specified goals. This often includes lifestyle change, healthy habit formation and cognitive therapy. Most often, I work with clients' present-day experiences, with less focus on the past. Many of my clients tell me that traditional talk therapy has not worked for them, and they want to try something different.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues and insomnia and am trained in CBT-I.
I'm a solution-focused, results-oriented counselor with a passion for helping people in the most efficient yet comprehensive manner possible. My clients and I identify opportunities for growth in all three aspects of mental health: behaviors, thoughts and emotions. I then suggest evidence-based treatment methods to match our specified goals. This often includes lifestyle change, healthy habit formation and cognitive therapy. Most often, I work with clients' present-day experiences, with less focus on the past. Many of my clients tell me that traditional talk therapy has not worked for them, and they want to try something different.
(206) 451-1356 View (206) 451-1356
Photo of Peter Hannah - Peter Hannah MA LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Peter Hannah MA LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
Therapy for men - I work with men on the internal issues that are showing up in their lives. When relationships fray, affairs or divorce happens, layoffs, depression, stress, anger or numbness rear their ugly heads - it can be time to stop and figure out what needs to be addressed. As a man - a father, a son, a husband, a brother, a friend myself - I am acutely aware of the internal worlds of men, and the external rules that often keep us from talking about what is going on inside.
Therapy for men - I work with men on the internal issues that are showing up in their lives. When relationships fray, affairs or divorce happens, layoffs, depression, stress, anger or numbness rear their ugly heads - it can be time to stop and figure out what needs to be addressed. As a man - a father, a son, a husband, a brother, a friend myself - I am acutely aware of the internal worlds of men, and the external rules that often keep us from talking about what is going on inside.
(425) 842-3454 View (425) 842-3454
Photo of Sarah Sterling - Sarah Sterling, Mindfulness-Based Counseling, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Sterling, Mindfulness-Based Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Ludlow, WA 98365  (Online Only)
Many of us come to counseling with some sort of an issue like anxiety, depression, or low self esteem.
As a mindfulness-based counselor, I help individuals, adolescents and couples transform their struggles into opportunities for growth, learning and adventure. I help you turn your problems into pathways. This journey is an opportunity to unearth the home that is your deep and abiding sense of self. Drawing on nature wisdom, archetypal patterns, myth, mindfulness and the mind-body connection, I am here to be a guide as you dive into your own depths. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward wholeness, freedom and purpose.
Many of us come to counseling with some sort of an issue like anxiety, depression, or low self esteem.
As a mindfulness-based counselor, I help individuals, adolescents and couples transform their struggles into opportunities for growth, learning and adventure. I help you turn your problems into pathways. This journey is an opportunity to unearth the home that is your deep and abiding sense of self. Drawing on nature wisdom, archetypal patterns, myth, mindfulness and the mind-body connection, I am here to be a guide as you dive into your own depths. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward wholeness, freedom and purpose.
(360) 215-2512 View (360) 215-2512
Photo of Owen Bargreen, PsyD, Psychologist
Owen Bargreen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Common clients I see suffer from depression, anxiety, marital issues or issues related to the pandemic.
Psychology works because it is a way to help people understand their problems and correct or change so that they can live more healthy or satisfying lives. Many people come for therapy if they are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety or relationship issues. Some other common problems that I help treat are problems with work injuries, sleep, weight, stress, trauma, and sexual problems. These problems can be greatly helped through therapy. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, meeting each individual’s needs rather than using one form of treatment.
Common clients I see suffer from depression, anxiety, marital issues or issues related to the pandemic.
Psychology works because it is a way to help people understand their problems and correct or change so that they can live more healthy or satisfying lives. Many people come for therapy if they are experiencing problems with depression, anxiety or relationship issues. Some other common problems that I help treat are problems with work injuries, sleep, weight, stress, trauma, and sexual problems. These problems can be greatly helped through therapy. I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, meeting each individual’s needs rather than using one form of treatment.
(425) 470-5190 View (425) 470-5190
Photo of Dave Parnes, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Parnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I offer psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to adults, children and teens. I am open to working with a range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, trauma and emotional regulation. I work with individuals seeking help with transient difficulties as well as those wanting to address more longstanding problems. My role as a therapist includes helping patients: deepen their awareness of their emotional lives; get in touch with aspects of themselves that they are out of touch with; foster the integration of varied aspects of themselves; establish and maintain healthy and satisfying relationships.
I offer psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to adults, children and teens. I am open to working with a range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, trauma and emotional regulation. I work with individuals seeking help with transient difficulties as well as those wanting to address more longstanding problems. My role as a therapist includes helping patients: deepen their awareness of their emotional lives; get in touch with aspects of themselves that they are out of touch with; foster the integration of varied aspects of themselves; establish and maintain healthy and satisfying relationships.
(206) 922-4254 View (206) 922-4254
1
...
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.