Depression Therapists in West Virginia

Photo of Speaking Life Instilling Hope Counseling Services - Amber Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
Speaking Life Instilling Hope Counseling Services - Amber Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26505
I work with individuals in the areas of depression, addictions, boundaries, alternative coping strategies, spirituality, fear and anxiety, anger management, self esteem issues, shame and guilt, acceptance, codependency, etc.
I provide individual, couples, or family counseling in order to help facilitate change, healing, and restoration. An ideal client is one who is struggling in life but willing to be open and honest. As your counselor I will listen to you without judgement, hear your story, and learn about the experiences that have impacted who you are. I am looking for clients who want to become the best version of themselves and will work with me to accomplish that. Counseling is similar to life in that it is not always easy and painless, but as your counselor I will be here to walk alongside you in this journey.
I work with individuals in the areas of depression, addictions, boundaries, alternative coping strategies, spirituality, fear and anxiety, anger management, self esteem issues, shame and guilt, acceptance, codependency, etc.
I provide individual, couples, or family counseling in order to help facilitate change, healing, and restoration. An ideal client is one who is struggling in life but willing to be open and honest. As your counselor I will listen to you without judgement, hear your story, and learn about the experiences that have impacted who you are. I am looking for clients who want to become the best version of themselves and will work with me to accomplish that. Counseling is similar to life in that it is not always easy and painless, but as your counselor I will be here to walk alongside you in this journey.
(304) 301-5504 View (304) 301-5504
Photo of Linda M Parkhill, Counselor in West Virginia
Linda M Parkhill
Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25404
My professional concentration has been in the areas of: domestic violence, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, PTSD, OCD, "transitional issues" and problem gambling.
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
My professional concentration has been in the areas of: domestic violence, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, PTSD, OCD, "transitional issues" and problem gambling.
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
(304) 462-9991 View (304) 462-9991
Photo of Nick G Vindivich III, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
Nick G Vindivich III
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
I believe your mental health is the most important thing you can take care of when it comes to your well-being. I understand it can be intimidating on how and where to start. The mind is complex, my mission is to help you better understand yourself and to see your life in a more meaningful way. I work with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. As well as those battling substance use disorders. As a foster and adoptive parent, I enjoy working with those who have been adopted or have navigated the foster care system. I have primarily worked with teens, young adults, adults, and couples.
I believe your mental health is the most important thing you can take care of when it comes to your well-being. I understand it can be intimidating on how and where to start. The mind is complex, my mission is to help you better understand yourself and to see your life in a more meaningful way. I work with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. As well as those battling substance use disorders. As a foster and adoptive parent, I enjoy working with those who have been adopted or have navigated the foster care system. I have primarily worked with teens, young adults, adults, and couples.
(304) 427-6209 View (304) 427-6209
Photo of Sara Lacaria-Hutchinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
Sara Lacaria-Hutchinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welch, WV 24801  (Online Only)
It takes a lot of courage to look at yourself; your real self. Thank you for being here and for being willing to open up your world to endless possibilities of wellness. I have worked with all ages with issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, and anger. At the very least, I want you to know that you’re not alone in your struggles. There are people who understand and who will listen. I am one of them. Please do not hesitate to reach out; I would love to get to know you!
It takes a lot of courage to look at yourself; your real self. Thank you for being here and for being willing to open up your world to endless possibilities of wellness. I have worked with all ages with issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, and anger. At the very least, I want you to know that you’re not alone in your struggles. There are people who understand and who will listen. I am one of them. Please do not hesitate to reach out; I would love to get to know you!
(304) 451-5679 View (304) 451-5679
Photo of Tiffany N Hendershot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Virginia
Tiffany N Hendershot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
My ideal client is someone ready for transformative change. They may struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, or childhood trauma, seeking to understand the root causes. They value personalized care, seeking evidence-based therapy and coaching to nurture their growth. They want to regain control, build resilience, and create lasting positive change in their lives. Their motivation comes from a desire for a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling future.
My ideal client is someone ready for transformative change. They may struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, or childhood trauma, seeking to understand the root causes. They value personalized care, seeking evidence-based therapy and coaching to nurture their growth. They want to regain control, build resilience, and create lasting positive change in their lives. Their motivation comes from a desire for a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling future.
(304) 969-7042 View (304) 969-7042
Photo of The Renovo Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
The Renovo Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LGSW
Verified Verified
Charles Town, WV 25414
We have openings for clients with Unicare, Aetna Better Health or the The Health Plan between 9 and 2pm. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or PTSD? Are you looking for "no shame" treatment that is based on how your brain works and changes? We are a group of compassionate counselors who have collaborated together to offer research supported, brain-based, integrative treatment to those who are hurting. Since different parts of the brain are in charge based on stress levels, treatments are most effective when matched with the part of the brain engaged.
We have openings for clients with Unicare, Aetna Better Health or the The Health Plan between 9 and 2pm. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or PTSD? Are you looking for "no shame" treatment that is based on how your brain works and changes? We are a group of compassionate counselors who have collaborated together to offer research supported, brain-based, integrative treatment to those who are hurting. Since different parts of the brain are in charge based on stress levels, treatments are most effective when matched with the part of the brain engaged.
(681) 214-5025 View (681) 214-5025
Photo of Lorin Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Virginia
Lorin Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
I have experience working with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings who struggle with substance use, as well as, depression and anxiety.
Seeking therapy can feel very daunting, overwhelming and feeling as if you are not sure it is right for you. You think, “what will this person think of me after I share all my struggles”, or “how will they judge me”. I am here to offer a free space for you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported while working through your inner struggles. You don’t have to feel alone or afraid of the things you are struggling with anymore. Let’s face it, life can be hard to manage sometimes and that’s why I’m here. I am here to help you get through those tough days.
I have experience working with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings who struggle with substance use, as well as, depression and anxiety.
Seeking therapy can feel very daunting, overwhelming and feeling as if you are not sure it is right for you. You think, “what will this person think of me after I share all my struggles”, or “how will they judge me”. I am here to offer a free space for you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported while working through your inner struggles. You don’t have to feel alone or afraid of the things you are struggling with anymore. Let’s face it, life can be hard to manage sometimes and that’s why I’m here. I am here to help you get through those tough days.
(304) 249-3798 View (304) 249-3798
Photo of Travis Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
Travis Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, ALPS
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508
Issues I have the most success with are anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, addiction/substance use and family conflict.
Therapy is a joint effort of two people to make significant changes in a person's life. I am coming in to session as an expert on change and you are the expert on yourself and the ideal life you want to live. Together we will work to find out what changes you would like to make in your life, and most importantly, how to get you there.
Issues I have the most success with are anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, addiction/substance use and family conflict.
Therapy is a joint effort of two people to make significant changes in a person's life. I am coming in to session as an expert on change and you are the expert on yourself and the ideal life you want to live. Together we will work to find out what changes you would like to make in your life, and most importantly, how to get you there.
(304) 826-2076 View (304) 826-2076
Photo of Teresa C Copley, Psychologist in West Virginia
Teresa C Copley
Psychologist, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Huntington, WV 25705
PeaceTree Center is a wonderful therapeutic environment. I am available for Psychological Evaluations and Individual, Couples or Family Therapy. I enjoy working with all ages. I do evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and more. I have late evening hours on Thursdays, if needed. Please contact me for your psychological needs!
PeaceTree Center is a wonderful therapeutic environment. I am available for Psychological Evaluations and Individual, Couples or Family Therapy. I enjoy working with all ages. I do evaluations for ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and more. I have late evening hours on Thursdays, if needed. Please contact me for your psychological needs!
(304) 318-7274 View (304) 318-7274
Photo of River Valley Associates, Psychologist in West Virginia
River Valley Associates
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Huntington, WV 25701  (Online Only)
We offer therapy to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting problems, and gender issues.
I started River Valley Associates in 2007. We now have 3 clinicians, with a range of specialties and styles. Please see our website to see more information at rivervalleyassociates.com. I enjoy helping my clients discover more productive and healthier ways of dealing with issues in their lives. I help them increase their self-awareness and find a more authentic center, which creates confidence in making better choices in their lives. My approach is client-centered, and I utilized a variety of techniques including cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies.
We offer therapy to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting problems, and gender issues.
I started River Valley Associates in 2007. We now have 3 clinicians, with a range of specialties and styles. Please see our website to see more information at rivervalleyassociates.com. I enjoy helping my clients discover more productive and healthier ways of dealing with issues in their lives. I help them increase their self-awareness and find a more authentic center, which creates confidence in making better choices in their lives. My approach is client-centered, and I utilized a variety of techniques including cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies.
(304) 397-5477 View (304) 397-5477
Photo of Graceway Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
Graceway Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington, WV 25701
Modern life can be a complicated and frightening thing. Daily there are news reports of catastrophes, rising economic problems, war, disasters, and the trials of every day living. Continuing issues from the pandemic, with teens and many adults feeling isolated due to the feelings of loss associated with it. Fear of the unknown, and concerns over modern life. Feeling as though you are alone, depressed, and anxious in an ever fast paced world. But hope still exists, it helps you to thrive in this modern world as opposed to just surviving. Hope is there waiting for you to find it, and help you through.
Modern life can be a complicated and frightening thing. Daily there are news reports of catastrophes, rising economic problems, war, disasters, and the trials of every day living. Continuing issues from the pandemic, with teens and many adults feeling isolated due to the feelings of loss associated with it. Fear of the unknown, and concerns over modern life. Feeling as though you are alone, depressed, and anxious in an ever fast paced world. But hope still exists, it helps you to thrive in this modern world as opposed to just surviving. Hope is there waiting for you to find it, and help you through.
(304) 451-5977 View (304) 451-5977
Photo of Pleasant View Professional Counseling, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
Pleasant View Professional Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ALPS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thank you for your interest in Pleasant View Counseling! We are located in downtown, Point Pleasant, WV at 610 1/2 Main Street, Suite B. (upstairs right in Mike Shaw's building). Samantha Fooce, WV-LPC, ALPS OH>LPCC-S is able to accept both WV and Ohio residents. Some conditions I treat are: Insomnia, “Stressed Out” Professionals, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse and Neglect, Grief and Loss, Adjustment Disorders, LGBTQIA+ Support, Children of Separation and Divorce, Blended Families, Self Esteem, Long-Term Recovery, Personal Development, Motivation, Goal Setting, School and Work Stressor and many others.
Thank you for your interest in Pleasant View Counseling! We are located in downtown, Point Pleasant, WV at 610 1/2 Main Street, Suite B. (upstairs right in Mike Shaw's building). Samantha Fooce, WV-LPC, ALPS OH>LPCC-S is able to accept both WV and Ohio residents. Some conditions I treat are: Insomnia, “Stressed Out” Professionals, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse and Neglect, Grief and Loss, Adjustment Disorders, LGBTQIA+ Support, Children of Separation and Divorce, Blended Families, Self Esteem, Long-Term Recovery, Personal Development, Motivation, Goal Setting, School and Work Stressor and many others.
(304) 381-6246 View (304) 381-6246
Photo of New Horizons Counseling Services, Psychologist in West Virginia
New Horizons Counseling Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Dr. Rachel Spurrier is a licensed clinical psychologist administering comprehensive psychological evaluations to clarify client diagnosis as well as to provide recommendations for treatment. Dr. Spurrier has administered testing to clients with concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her goal with clients is to make them feel comfortable and secure with the evaluative process, and to understand the importance of testing as they progress in their therapeutic treatment.
Dr. Rachel Spurrier is a licensed clinical psychologist administering comprehensive psychological evaluations to clarify client diagnosis as well as to provide recommendations for treatment. Dr. Spurrier has administered testing to clients with concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her goal with clients is to make them feel comfortable and secure with the evaluative process, and to understand the importance of testing as they progress in their therapeutic treatment.
(304) 244-3816 View (304) 244-3816
Photo of James C Kowalski, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
James C Kowalski
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheeling, WV 26003
Are you struggling with issues related to addiction, anxiety, depression, stress or other major life challenges? If you are not achieving your goals in life, I am here to support you on your journey toward wellness. I utilize validated psychotherapy methods to help clients adopt new behaviors and attitudes resulting in personal growth and change. Therapy is a process of healing. It takes an investment of time, participation and action. Small, constant changes can lead to coping and positive results. I am licensed in West Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia and do teletherapy with clients in those states.
Are you struggling with issues related to addiction, anxiety, depression, stress or other major life challenges? If you are not achieving your goals in life, I am here to support you on your journey toward wellness. I utilize validated psychotherapy methods to help clients adopt new behaviors and attitudes resulting in personal growth and change. Therapy is a process of healing. It takes an investment of time, participation and action. Small, constant changes can lead to coping and positive results. I am licensed in West Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia and do teletherapy with clients in those states.
(304) 337-5267 View (304) 337-5267
Photo of Beth Carroll, Counselor in West Virginia
Beth Carroll
Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Weirton, WV 26062
Hi, thanks for looking at my profile! Seeing that you are on this page, you have already taken the first step in your therapeutic journey. Your self-awareness of knowing in your heart of hearts that you could use some help shows great courage. I work with individuals on a one-on-one basis and have a warm but direct approach. I really aim to get to know you and work alongside you to find ways to work together to achieve your goals. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety and depression and will work with ages 12 and up. I look forward to hearing from you and getting to know you on this new journey.
Hi, thanks for looking at my profile! Seeing that you are on this page, you have already taken the first step in your therapeutic journey. Your self-awareness of knowing in your heart of hearts that you could use some help shows great courage. I work with individuals on a one-on-one basis and have a warm but direct approach. I really aim to get to know you and work alongside you to find ways to work together to achieve your goals. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety and depression and will work with ages 12 and up. I look forward to hearing from you and getting to know you on this new journey.
(304) 381-6970 View (304) 381-6970
Photo of Carey Webb, Psychologist in West Virginia
Carey Webb
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Hurricane, WV 25526  (Online Only)
What does a depressed tortilla say? "I don’t wanna taco ’bout it." I like to use a mixture of compassion, humor, and directness. I talk to people in a "real" way (not overly flowery or cheesy "therapist" talk). I want you to feel truly seen and to share in some laughter, but I also want you to feel enough trust with me to be challenged out of your comfort zone a little - to try seeing or doing things in a different way so you can get closer to your goals/healing. I love helping people get past the things holding them back. I'm passionate about trauma, anxiety, and depression treatment.
What does a depressed tortilla say? "I don’t wanna taco ’bout it." I like to use a mixture of compassion, humor, and directness. I talk to people in a "real" way (not overly flowery or cheesy "therapist" talk). I want you to feel truly seen and to share in some laughter, but I also want you to feel enough trust with me to be challenged out of your comfort zone a little - to try seeing or doing things in a different way so you can get closer to your goals/healing. I love helping people get past the things holding them back. I'm passionate about trauma, anxiety, and depression treatment.
(681) 206-8620 View (681) 206-8620
Tim Lloyd Vaughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
My goal in counseling each individual is to help them feel and get better. I have been working with children and adolescents in this field for over 20 years in areas such as ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and behavior issues as well as struggles in the family unit. In addition to this, I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors who want to improve their moods and make positive life changes for themselves.
My goal in counseling each individual is to help them feel and get better. I have been working with children and adolescents in this field for over 20 years in areas such as ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and behavior issues as well as struggles in the family unit. In addition to this, I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors who want to improve their moods and make positive life changes for themselves.
(681) 201-4427 View (681) 201-4427
Photo of Karena Neace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Virginia
Karena Neace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Hurricane, WV 25526
My areas of expertise include depression, trauma, anxiety, and dissociative disorders.
Therapy is often described as a journey or an adventure through life's ups and downs. We're all on a quest to uncover the treasure of inner peace and well-being, and I'm here to be your trusted guide along the path. Together, we'll navigate the challenges and celebrate the growth. It will be difficult at times, but you will be wrapped in unwavering support, and it will be worth the time and energy to keep pushing forward.
My areas of expertise include depression, trauma, anxiety, and dissociative disorders.
Therapy is often described as a journey or an adventure through life's ups and downs. We're all on a quest to uncover the treasure of inner peace and well-being, and I'm here to be your trusted guide along the path. Together, we'll navigate the challenges and celebrate the growth. It will be difficult at times, but you will be wrapped in unwavering support, and it will be worth the time and energy to keep pushing forward.
(304) 760-9945 View (304) 760-9945
Photo of Kathleen L. Morotti, Counselor in West Virginia
Kathleen L. Morotti
Counselor, LPC, LCDAC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
We offer a variety of techniques to guide you into creating a pathway to healing and a direction that feels increasingly aligned with your own sense of inner core purpose. Over the years of counseling others, I have developed a specialty in working with depression, codependency issues, dual diagnosis & survivors of abuse. Since relocating to the area in 1999, I have been focusing on working with individuals, families, couples and groups. I lead two therapeutic support groups for women. (Please review group tabs for details.) I am also a dance/movement therapist offering a creative alternative on the therapeutic path.
We offer a variety of techniques to guide you into creating a pathway to healing and a direction that feels increasingly aligned with your own sense of inner core purpose. Over the years of counseling others, I have developed a specialty in working with depression, codependency issues, dual diagnosis & survivors of abuse. Since relocating to the area in 1999, I have been focusing on working with individuals, families, couples and groups. I lead two therapeutic support groups for women. (Please review group tabs for details.) I am also a dance/movement therapist offering a creative alternative on the therapeutic path.
(304) 876-3500 View (304) 876-3500
Photo of A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25405
As the Clinical Director at A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, I desire to help individuals and families discover solutions for the challenges they face. Whether dealing with relationship problems, depression, anxiety or other mental health issues, your treatment will be individualized to help you work toward restoration of mental health, improved relationships and spiritual growth. Our therapists operate from a Christian perspective, and serve people of all faiths and denominations. We always honor the personal beliefs of every client and all clients choose IF and how they would like to incorporate their personal faith in their treatment.
As the Clinical Director at A Brighter Tomorrow Counseling, I desire to help individuals and families discover solutions for the challenges they face. Whether dealing with relationship problems, depression, anxiety or other mental health issues, your treatment will be individualized to help you work toward restoration of mental health, improved relationships and spiritual growth. Our therapists operate from a Christian perspective, and serve people of all faiths and denominations. We always honor the personal beliefs of every client and all clients choose IF and how they would like to incorporate their personal faith in their treatment.
(304) 807-9172 View (304) 807-9172

See more therapy options for West Virginia

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.