Photo of Margo Nelson, Counselor in Madison, WI
Margo Nelson
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53707  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in hoarding disorder, depression, anxiety, recovery, relationships, couple's therapy, trauma, OCD, and grief, especially pet grief.
You are amazing. Together we can create a map for your unique journey of experiences and change. I am an open and accepting, culturally competent, sex positive, compassionate and creative counselor. My approach is tailored to individual client's or couple’s needs. I have an emphasis in Rogerian, emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, and narrative therapies. I work with people from late adolescence through older adult.
I specialize in hoarding disorder, depression, anxiety, recovery, relationships, couple's therapy, trauma, OCD, and grief, especially pet grief.
You are amazing. Together we can create a map for your unique journey of experiences and change. I am an open and accepting, culturally competent, sex positive, compassionate and creative counselor. My approach is tailored to individual client's or couple’s needs. I have an emphasis in Rogerian, emotionally focused, cognitive behavioral, and narrative therapies. I work with people from late adolescence through older adult.
(608) 571-1398 View (608) 571-1398
Photo of Andrea Vogel Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Andrea Vogel Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
My clinical focus addresses the needs of people of all ages experiencing eating disorders, depression, anxiety and self harm/NSSI representing diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I work in tandem with my clients toward an enhanced understanding of the ways in which our constructions of experience impact the way we think and feel and our subsequent actions and behaviors.
My clinical focus addresses the needs of people of all ages experiencing eating disorders, depression, anxiety and self harm/NSSI representing diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I work in tandem with my clients toward an enhanced understanding of the ways in which our constructions of experience impact the way we think and feel and our subsequent actions and behaviors.
(608) 729-4072 View (608) 729-4072
Photo of Libby Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Madison, WI
Libby Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53716  (Online Only)
As a mental health professional, I understand how important it is to find the right therapist. As a Black Woman, I understand the unique challenges faced by Black and Brown communities when it comes to accessing mental health care. I am committed to providing culturally sensitive and inclusive services to individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or simply seeking guidance on life's challenges, I am here to support you on your journey towards greater mental health and wellness.
As a mental health professional, I understand how important it is to find the right therapist. As a Black Woman, I understand the unique challenges faced by Black and Brown communities when it comes to accessing mental health care. I am committed to providing culturally sensitive and inclusive services to individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or simply seeking guidance on life's challenges, I am here to support you on your journey towards greater mental health and wellness.
(608) 200-2159 View (608) 200-2159
Photo of Ian Nelson-Johnson, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Ian Nelson-Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
I feel especially capable to treat trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and major life transitions.
Currently accepting new clients! It takes tremendous courage to turn the spotlight inwards and work on ourselves. I consider it a genuine privilege to walk alongside people as we navigate their struggles and successes. It is why I have such deep respect for the people who walk through my door. If you are that person, know this: ALL of you is welcome here. Meaningful relationships are central to our well-being, just as much as water or air; however, they often are the source of intense pain. Our therapeutic work will be built on a foundation of trust, and focus on developing the relationships with yourself and others you deserve.
I feel especially capable to treat trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and major life transitions.
Currently accepting new clients! It takes tremendous courage to turn the spotlight inwards and work on ourselves. I consider it a genuine privilege to walk alongside people as we navigate their struggles and successes. It is why I have such deep respect for the people who walk through my door. If you are that person, know this: ALL of you is welcome here. Meaningful relationships are central to our well-being, just as much as water or air; however, they often are the source of intense pain. Our therapeutic work will be built on a foundation of trust, and focus on developing the relationships with yourself and others you deserve.
(608) 602-7225 View (608) 602-7225
Photo of Jill Klotz Flitter, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Jill Klotz Flitter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
I have significant experience working with clients who have a wide range of concerns including sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, family difficulties, peer problems, self-injurious behaviors, grief and loss, and adjustment and life transitions.
Chocolate, snowboarding, and shopping can be therapeutic, but sometimes they're not enough. I see teenagers, adults, and families when struggles get in the way of fun and suffering becomes too familiar. Friends and family hopefully are there when we need them, yet therapists can provide additional essentials: nonjudgmental, individual attention in a safe setting. Relationships are central to our well-being, and the therapy process involves building a relationship. Clients lead, and I listen to your goals and help you to identify unhealthy patterns, reduce negative self-talk, and learn more about how you view yourself and the world.
I have significant experience working with clients who have a wide range of concerns including sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, family difficulties, peer problems, self-injurious behaviors, grief and loss, and adjustment and life transitions.
Chocolate, snowboarding, and shopping can be therapeutic, but sometimes they're not enough. I see teenagers, adults, and families when struggles get in the way of fun and suffering becomes too familiar. Friends and family hopefully are there when we need them, yet therapists can provide additional essentials: nonjudgmental, individual attention in a safe setting. Relationships are central to our well-being, and the therapy process involves building a relationship. Clients lead, and I listen to your goals and help you to identify unhealthy patterns, reduce negative self-talk, and learn more about how you view yourself and the world.
(608) 514-1124 x4 View (608) 514-1124 x4
Photo of Susan LeGrand Levine, Counselor in Madison, WI
Susan LeGrand Levine
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53717
Because your life is worth my time. I provide non-judgemental, client-centered psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My focus is solution-oriented and goal-driven. My office is conveniently located off of the West Beltline in Madison. You and I can navigate difficult life challenges and changes with confidence and assurance. I have significant experience as a psychotherapist, having been in practice in Madison, Wisconsin for over 25 years. My clients come to me for issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, and grief. I offer adoption competent therapy.
Because your life is worth my time. I provide non-judgemental, client-centered psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My focus is solution-oriented and goal-driven. My office is conveniently located off of the West Beltline in Madison. You and I can navigate difficult life challenges and changes with confidence and assurance. I have significant experience as a psychotherapist, having been in practice in Madison, Wisconsin for over 25 years. My clients come to me for issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, and grief. I offer adoption competent therapy.
(608) 208-9869 View (608) 208-9869
Photo of Gerald W. Greenfield Ph. D., Psychologist in Madison, WI
Gerald W. Greenfield Ph. D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53725  (Online Only)
Are you looking for someone who is easy to talk to, who will listen supportively and non-judgmentally, and who will also offer helpful feedback? I'm a licensed psychologist who has helped individuals and couples with a wide range of challenges for over 25 years, including marital, relationship, and communication issues; and problems with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem, alcohol use, and struggles related to a bad childhood. (See "Specialties" and "Issues" below.) Whether you have individual and/or relationship concerns, I offer understanding, compassion, new perspectives, and new ways to cope with challenges.
Are you looking for someone who is easy to talk to, who will listen supportively and non-judgmentally, and who will also offer helpful feedback? I'm a licensed psychologist who has helped individuals and couples with a wide range of challenges for over 25 years, including marital, relationship, and communication issues; and problems with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem, alcohol use, and struggles related to a bad childhood. (See "Specialties" and "Issues" below.) Whether you have individual and/or relationship concerns, I offer understanding, compassion, new perspectives, and new ways to cope with challenges.
(608) 315-5716 View (608) 315-5716
Photo of Nicolle Levy, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Nicolle Levy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711
I see therapy as a collaborative process, where the client takes the 'expert seat'. No one knows you better than yourself. My role is to offer my knowledge when and where appropriate to help you gain insight into your concerns and facilitate the growth or change desired. I try to create a relaxed and non-judgmental environment for my clients. My approach is client-centered and strength based. I treat a wide range of concerns, which include depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, adult survivors of child abuse, eating disorders/body image, relationship concerns, family of origin issues, and grief and loss.
I see therapy as a collaborative process, where the client takes the 'expert seat'. No one knows you better than yourself. My role is to offer my knowledge when and where appropriate to help you gain insight into your concerns and facilitate the growth or change desired. I try to create a relaxed and non-judgmental environment for my clients. My approach is client-centered and strength based. I treat a wide range of concerns, which include depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, adult survivors of child abuse, eating disorders/body image, relationship concerns, family of origin issues, and grief and loss.
(608) 208-1535 x112 View (608) 208-1535 x112
Photo of Rachel Sanabria, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Rachel Sanabria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
For some of us they have been informed by past experiences and past trauma, for others of us anxiety and depression have infiltrated our stories.
“Sensitivity isn't being wimpy. It's about being so painfully aware that a flea landing on a dog is like a sonic boom.” This is a quote from a favorite musician of mine, Jeff Buckley. I see sensitivity as a strength, not a deficit. As a therapist, I work hard to help my clients understand that oftentimes the parts of themselves that they view as weak are really their greatest strengths. The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves are very important. They are the lens through which we view everything- they color our world. The problem is that a lot of the time the narratives we have about ourselves are simply not true.
For some of us they have been informed by past experiences and past trauma, for others of us anxiety and depression have infiltrated our stories.
“Sensitivity isn't being wimpy. It's about being so painfully aware that a flea landing on a dog is like a sonic boom.” This is a quote from a favorite musician of mine, Jeff Buckley. I see sensitivity as a strength, not a deficit. As a therapist, I work hard to help my clients understand that oftentimes the parts of themselves that they view as weak are really their greatest strengths. The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves are very important. They are the lens through which we view everything- they color our world. The problem is that a lot of the time the narratives we have about ourselves are simply not true.
(608) 719-3511 View (608) 719-3511
Photo of Renee St Clair, Marriage & Family Therapist in Madison, WI
Renee St Clair
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Do you want immediate relief and help? I have a significant success rate with anyone living with anxiety, depression or relationship issues. My therapy style is best described as honest and strategic in helping you discover the root of your problem and coming up with solutions that fit your specific problem. Life can be hard yet you can achieve happiness through all of it. Learning to really live life on life's terms is the key! As an LMFT and Ph.D. in counseling I can help you take a leap of faith and start working on you!
Do you want immediate relief and help? I have a significant success rate with anyone living with anxiety, depression or relationship issues. My therapy style is best described as honest and strategic in helping you discover the root of your problem and coming up with solutions that fit your specific problem. Life can be hard yet you can achieve happiness through all of it. Learning to really live life on life's terms is the key! As an LMFT and Ph.D. in counseling I can help you take a leap of faith and start working on you!
(608) 208-6847 View (608) 208-6847
Photo of Sellers Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Sellers Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I can help with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, problematic use of alcohol and other substances, trauma, difficulty dealing with emotions, stress related to day-to-day living, struggles with life changes, and self-harming behaviors including suicidal behavior and non-suicidal self-injury.
The number one thing that makes therapy work is the connection between client and therapist. I want to understand what's happening with you so that I can put my skills to good use and help you to meet your therapy goals. My methods are based on scientific research and on my professional experience as a therapist. Many of the techniques I use with clients are techniques that I have applied in my own life to reduce my own suffering and improve my own happiness. I practice much of what I preach, so I know firsthand that these methods work.
I can help with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, problematic use of alcohol and other substances, trauma, difficulty dealing with emotions, stress related to day-to-day living, struggles with life changes, and self-harming behaviors including suicidal behavior and non-suicidal self-injury.
The number one thing that makes therapy work is the connection between client and therapist. I want to understand what's happening with you so that I can put my skills to good use and help you to meet your therapy goals. My methods are based on scientific research and on my professional experience as a therapist. Many of the techniques I use with clients are techniques that I have applied in my own life to reduce my own suffering and improve my own happiness. I practice much of what I preach, so I know firsthand that these methods work.
(608) 535-6652 View (608) 535-6652
Photo of Lakeside Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Lakeside Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stress in your daily life that keeps you awake at night or ongoing depression that prevents you from feeling motivated? Maybe you've experienced a significant loss or trauma that causes debilitating intrusive thoughts or flashbacks. Additionally, if you are struggling with the stress of university life, setting healthy boundaries, or communication with a partner or family member, we are here to help you explore what is keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping.
Are you struggling with stress in your daily life that keeps you awake at night or ongoing depression that prevents you from feeling motivated? Maybe you've experienced a significant loss or trauma that causes debilitating intrusive thoughts or flashbacks. Additionally, if you are struggling with the stress of university life, setting healthy boundaries, or communication with a partner or family member, we are here to help you explore what is keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping.
(608) 560-5533 View (608) 560-5533
Photo of Stacey Dulin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Stacey Dulin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, women's and LGBT issues.
Are you looking for help with life's challenges? Do you strive for inner peace and happiness? I can help you through these difficult times and assist you with making important decisions you may be facing. We will work together to come up with individualized solutions to help you overcome your obstacles so you can be your authentic self. I want to provide you with a safe, supportive environment, and want you to feel comfortable, so I often incorporate relaxation exercises into sessions. I am experienced in providing a wide variety of therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, women's and LGBT issues.
Are you looking for help with life's challenges? Do you strive for inner peace and happiness? I can help you through these difficult times and assist you with making important decisions you may be facing. We will work together to come up with individualized solutions to help you overcome your obstacles so you can be your authentic self. I want to provide you with a safe, supportive environment, and want you to feel comfortable, so I often incorporate relaxation exercises into sessions. I am experienced in providing a wide variety of therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families.
(608) 807-2399 View (608) 807-2399
Photo of Rosa Daneshvar, Counselor in Madison, WI
Rosa Daneshvar
Counselor, CRC, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53714
Previously I worked as a chemical engineer, but I wasn’t satisfied. I couldn’t see the direct impact of my work and I craved the intimacy of working directly with people. So, I became a therapist. I enjoy helping those with trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I have training in EMDR and brainspotting. The impact and power these techniques have in helping a person to heal disturbing memories and experiences fascinates me. I use a client-centered approach, following your lead on goals and what you’d like to explore. I believe in a human’s innate potential to heal.
Previously I worked as a chemical engineer, but I wasn’t satisfied. I couldn’t see the direct impact of my work and I craved the intimacy of working directly with people. So, I became a therapist. I enjoy helping those with trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I have training in EMDR and brainspotting. The impact and power these techniques have in helping a person to heal disturbing memories and experiences fascinates me. I use a client-centered approach, following your lead on goals and what you’d like to explore. I believe in a human’s innate potential to heal.
(608) 680-2820 View (608) 680-2820
Photo of Shondale DeLoach, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Shondale DeLoach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience in treating mood disorders, like depression.
I am currently accepting virtual-therapy clients from Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The decision to seek therapy is a very important decision, but choosing the right therapist is even more important since one of the best predictors of a positive therapy outcome is the fit between client and therapist. I strive to provide the people with whom I work an environment that is comfortable, nonjudgmental, and genuinely validating. My job is to provide a space for you to access your strengths and attributes, and with this I can provide psychological approaches to help you address the concerns that brought you in for therapy.
I also have extensive experience in treating mood disorders, like depression.
I am currently accepting virtual-therapy clients from Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The decision to seek therapy is a very important decision, but choosing the right therapist is even more important since one of the best predictors of a positive therapy outcome is the fit between client and therapist. I strive to provide the people with whom I work an environment that is comfortable, nonjudgmental, and genuinely validating. My job is to provide a space for you to access your strengths and attributes, and with this I can provide psychological approaches to help you address the concerns that brought you in for therapy.
(312) 467-7471 View (312) 467-7471
Photo of Kaaren V Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Kaaren V Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53701  (Online Only)
Are you feeling "stuck" or struggling to reach your next level? Do feelings such as anxiety, depression, unresolved conflict, attachment concerns or trauma prevent you from living your best life and fully engaging in relationships?  There is a way forward and you don't have to go through this alone. I love being a therapist. I love providing a safe space and helping people find their inner tools to navigate life transitions, find true relief from mental health challenges, and reach their wellness goals.  It is my mission to help those I work with experience inner peace, fulfilling lives, and improved relationships.
Are you feeling "stuck" or struggling to reach your next level? Do feelings such as anxiety, depression, unresolved conflict, attachment concerns or trauma prevent you from living your best life and fully engaging in relationships?  There is a way forward and you don't have to go through this alone. I love being a therapist. I love providing a safe space and helping people find their inner tools to navigate life transitions, find true relief from mental health challenges, and reach their wellness goals.  It is my mission to help those I work with experience inner peace, fulfilling lives, and improved relationships.
(608) 527-0243 View (608) 527-0243
Photo of Bonnie Dilley (Lubet), Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Bonnie Dilley (Lubet)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC, RN, EMDR
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
professional careercoaching, substance abuse/addictions, divorce support, co-parenting, depression & anxiety, bipolar disorder, & ADHD.
There are many reasons for seeking guidance and today, you have taken the first courageous step by looking for help. I invite you to take the next step and call 608-577-4222 for a NO COST “get acquainted” phone consult. Maybe your current coping strategies are not working, or you haven't healed from emotionally painful life experiences/trauma that are negatively impacting you today. Perhaps you want to improve your relationship and learn effective communication skills. Together we can work to find effective solutions and coping strategies that work for you. I am honored to partner with you on your journey to your best self.
professional careercoaching, substance abuse/addictions, divorce support, co-parenting, depression & anxiety, bipolar disorder, & ADHD.
There are many reasons for seeking guidance and today, you have taken the first courageous step by looking for help. I invite you to take the next step and call 608-577-4222 for a NO COST “get acquainted” phone consult. Maybe your current coping strategies are not working, or you haven't healed from emotionally painful life experiences/trauma that are negatively impacting you today. Perhaps you want to improve your relationship and learn effective communication skills. Together we can work to find effective solutions and coping strategies that work for you. I am honored to partner with you on your journey to your best self.
(608) 844-2117 View (608) 844-2117
Photo of Amy Munson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Madison, WI
Amy Munson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
Amy works with couples and adults (18+) navigating relationship and communication challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and grief. Amy has specialized training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Amy believes we are a collection of our life experiences. They can shape our perspectives and worldviews, especially those experiences that are most challenging. Amy’s goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nurturing, and healing space to work collaboratively with clients while tailoring treatment specific to each and every client.
Amy works with couples and adults (18+) navigating relationship and communication challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and grief. Amy has specialized training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Amy believes we are a collection of our life experiences. They can shape our perspectives and worldviews, especially those experiences that are most challenging. Amy’s goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nurturing, and healing space to work collaboratively with clients while tailoring treatment specific to each and every client.
(608) 856-3587 View (608) 856-3587
Photo of Karla Locher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Karla Locher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704
While therapy can begin because of a symptom or problem – depression, insomnia, alcohol and substance use, or sexual dysfunction – symptoms are not the guiding stars of therapy. I practice therapy that is about making space for your whole self and making use of insight to understand your relationship to change. Whether our work is brief or long-lasting, we will work to discover and relate to the totality of who you are.
While therapy can begin because of a symptom or problem – depression, insomnia, alcohol and substance use, or sexual dysfunction – symptoms are not the guiding stars of therapy. I practice therapy that is about making space for your whole self and making use of insight to understand your relationship to change. Whether our work is brief or long-lasting, we will work to discover and relate to the totality of who you are.
(608) 200-2851 View (608) 200-2851
Photo of Callie Fox, Counselor in Madison, WI
Callie Fox
Counselor, PCTL, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with anxiety, depression, attachment/relationship concerns, identity development, social anxiety, life transitions, and substance/addictive disorders.
Waitlist for new clients! Hello and welcome to my practice where we can embark on your therapeutic journey together in a safe and compassionate space. In my practice, I'm dedicated to providing a space where you can feel truly seen and understood. My primary goal is to create a supportive and safe environment so we can explore the signs that point toward healing, inner wisdom and self-honoring. My approach is trauma-sensitive and collaborative, grounded in Person-Centered counseling. Drawing from an attachment-based lens, I integrate elements of mindfulness, interpersonal processing, and cognitive/narrative therapies.
I also work with anxiety, depression, attachment/relationship concerns, identity development, social anxiety, life transitions, and substance/addictive disorders.
Waitlist for new clients! Hello and welcome to my practice where we can embark on your therapeutic journey together in a safe and compassionate space. In my practice, I'm dedicated to providing a space where you can feel truly seen and understood. My primary goal is to create a supportive and safe environment so we can explore the signs that point toward healing, inner wisdom and self-honoring. My approach is trauma-sensitive and collaborative, grounded in Person-Centered counseling. Drawing from an attachment-based lens, I integrate elements of mindfulness, interpersonal processing, and cognitive/narrative therapies.
(608) 650-6185 View (608) 650-6185
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.