Photo of Paul M Smerz, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Paul M Smerz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217
I work with adults and adolescents presenting with a variety of mental health and relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, health problems, and other crises that may accompany life.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
I work with adults and adolescents presenting with a variety of mental health and relationship issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, health problems, and other crises that may accompany life.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
(414) 905-3081 x470 View (414) 905-3081 x470
Photo of Molly Wilcox Yahr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Molly Wilcox Yahr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Have you been feeling out of control, exhausted, and isolated by anxiety and depression? Do you find yourself struggling to maintain healthy relationships and boundaries? Are you tired of hating your body and obsessing about food? Do thoughts of food and weight consume you? If you can relate to any of these questions, therapy can help. I can help you overcome the challenges you are facing.
Have you been feeling out of control, exhausted, and isolated by anxiety and depression? Do you find yourself struggling to maintain healthy relationships and boundaries? Are you tired of hating your body and obsessing about food? Do thoughts of food and weight consume you? If you can relate to any of these questions, therapy can help. I can help you overcome the challenges you are facing.
(262) 300-4055 View (262) 300-4055
Photo of Tammy M Beran, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Tammy M Beran
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53204
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Beran is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been providing evidence-based psychological care to individuals for the last 17 years. She received her PhD from the nation’s most highly rated clinical psychology program, UCLA, where she gained extensive experience helping people with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic illness, trauma, and grief. A firm believer that academic knowledge is only part of what makes a quality therapist, Dr. Beran combines her in-depth psychological training with warmth, humor, and affection for her clients.
Dr. Beran is a licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been providing evidence-based psychological care to individuals for the last 17 years. She received her PhD from the nation’s most highly rated clinical psychology program, UCLA, where she gained extensive experience helping people with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic illness, trauma, and grief. A firm believer that academic knowledge is only part of what makes a quality therapist, Dr. Beran combines her in-depth psychological training with warmth, humor, and affection for her clients.
(414) 206-1901 View (414) 206-1901
Photo of Susan Wasserman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Susan Wasserman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211
Are you looking for a warm and trusting connection to help you be truly seen and understood? Do you feel depressed, anxious, lost, or stuck? Do you struggle with self-esteem or relationship challenges? With support and compassion I facilitate self-awareness, transformation and a greater sense of well being. I provide tools to work through trauma and grief, diminish negative patterns. and increase self compassion. With over 27 years experience, my approach is holistic. I honor diversity and complexity, I work best with those interested in exploring their inner resources, gaining insight into themselves, and releasing blocks to progress.
Are you looking for a warm and trusting connection to help you be truly seen and understood? Do you feel depressed, anxious, lost, or stuck? Do you struggle with self-esteem or relationship challenges? With support and compassion I facilitate self-awareness, transformation and a greater sense of well being. I provide tools to work through trauma and grief, diminish negative patterns. and increase self compassion. With over 27 years experience, my approach is holistic. I honor diversity and complexity, I work best with those interested in exploring their inner resources, gaining insight into themselves, and releasing blocks to progress.
(414) 369-2930 View (414) 369-2930
Photo of Avian Psychotherapy, Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Avian Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My practice is half children and half adults. Having fostered and adopted myself, I am particularly skilled to assist foster and adoptive family needs. I also use play, expressive arts, sand tray and music to assist in therapy. First responders, gender non conforming, clients with anxiety, depression, thought and mood disorders, are particularly welcome. I am located in the east side of Milwaukee near the lake.
My practice is half children and half adults. Having fostered and adopted myself, I am particularly skilled to assist foster and adoptive family needs. I also use play, expressive arts, sand tray and music to assist in therapy. First responders, gender non conforming, clients with anxiety, depression, thought and mood disorders, are particularly welcome. I am located in the east side of Milwaukee near the lake.
(414) 312-5260 View (414) 312-5260
Photo of Alev Ildiz, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Alev Ildiz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests include identity development, family and relationship concerns, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and substance use.
Sometimes the way you relate to yourself and others no longer aligns with who you truly are, your values or how you envisioned your life. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel anxious or misunderstood, and start to question your worth or love. To cope, you wear a mask to hide parts of yourself, which creates feelings of tension within yourself and with others. What if you lived your life according to your values while accepting and expressing your genuine self? I create a judgement free, safe therapeutic space where you can explore, understand and find your authentic self.
My clinical interests include identity development, family and relationship concerns, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and substance use.
Sometimes the way you relate to yourself and others no longer aligns with who you truly are, your values or how you envisioned your life. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel anxious or misunderstood, and start to question your worth or love. To cope, you wear a mask to hide parts of yourself, which creates feelings of tension within yourself and with others. What if you lived your life according to your values while accepting and expressing your genuine self? I create a judgement free, safe therapeutic space where you can explore, understand and find your authentic self.
(262) 537-5458 View (262) 537-5458
Photo of Jennifer Stagg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Jennifer Stagg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53210
In my 15+ years of clinical practice I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. I have given special focus to adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and self-identity issues. I am always learning in order to increase my specialized focus on concerns related to anxiety, adoption and emerging adulthood. I enjoy working with the 10-25 year old age group but throughout my years of private practice I have worked with children as young as 5 and adults as young as 65. I hope to help clients find satisfaction in life.
In my 15+ years of clinical practice I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. I have given special focus to adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and self-identity issues. I am always learning in order to increase my specialized focus on concerns related to anxiety, adoption and emerging adulthood. I enjoy working with the 10-25 year old age group but throughout my years of private practice I have worked with children as young as 5 and adults as young as 65. I hope to help clients find satisfaction in life.
(414) 455-5978 View (414) 455-5978
Photo of Dr. Debbie Contreras-Tadych, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Dr. Debbie Contreras-Tadych
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207  (Online Only)
Therapy can be helpful to deal with many of life's challenges - feeling depressed or anxious, sleep difficulties, relationship troubles, dissatisfaction with work, and identity issues, just to name a few.
I enjoy working to celebrate the individualism and uniqueness of each client. I have a special interest in diversity and am passionate about supporting clients who may be struggling with challenges related to immigration status, sexual orientation/gender identity, racial and cultural identity, etc. My treatment approach uses characteristics of trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and behavioral activation.
Therapy can be helpful to deal with many of life's challenges - feeling depressed or anxious, sleep difficulties, relationship troubles, dissatisfaction with work, and identity issues, just to name a few.
I enjoy working to celebrate the individualism and uniqueness of each client. I have a special interest in diversity and am passionate about supporting clients who may be struggling with challenges related to immigration status, sexual orientation/gender identity, racial and cultural identity, etc. My treatment approach uses characteristics of trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and behavioral activation.
(414) 626-7899 View (414) 626-7899
Photo of Mehwish Aqueel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Mehwish Aqueel
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53221
I have indepth experience and training in DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy for treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress, Anger-Management, Marriage Counseling, Parenting, Interpersonal Skills Development & Addiction.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
I have indepth experience and training in DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy for treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress, Anger-Management, Marriage Counseling, Parenting, Interpersonal Skills Development & Addiction.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP” (Tao Te Ching) I am a National Board Certified Counselor specialized in Evidence Based Treatment. My treatment philosophy is to help Adolescents, Adults and families manage stressful life situations, relational stressors, embrace change, acceptance and meet challenging goals.
(414) 246-5601 View (414) 246-5601
Photo of Jaclene Newell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Jaclene Newell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
Hello there! :) I am Jaclene Newell (Jac-lean), as the pronunciation name. I am licensed as a licensed professional counselor with a specialization in forensics here in Wisconsin. My great compassion is to bring healing to those who are experiencing life's difficulties and guide my clients through the obstacles life often presents to us. I help many clients including adolescents, couples, adults, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves, strengthen their relationships, to become their most radiant selves as they work through their trauma, depression, anxiety, and stressors.
Hello there! :) I am Jaclene Newell (Jac-lean), as the pronunciation name. I am licensed as a licensed professional counselor with a specialization in forensics here in Wisconsin. My great compassion is to bring healing to those who are experiencing life's difficulties and guide my clients through the obstacles life often presents to us. I help many clients including adolescents, couples, adults, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves, strengthen their relationships, to become their most radiant selves as they work through their trauma, depression, anxiety, and stressors.
(414) 409-9533 View (414) 409-9533
Photo of Julia Bratton Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Julia Bratton Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
As someone who has struggled with anxiety & depression, I get how hard life can be & have tried & true strategies to get you feeling better, in the quickest way possible.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unsure of what to do or even what options there are for next steps? I hear you & I get it. I have walked along side individuals in their healing journey for the past 10 years & I'd be honored to walk along side you as you explore who you are & how to be a more full version of yourself, content & at peace within yourself. I work with people who face a variety of challenges in life, from a mental health issue like anxiety or depression to toxic relationships, traumas, & problematic patterns in life. I am direct & non-judgmental, I offer compassion & help you get the solutions for which you are looking.
As someone who has struggled with anxiety & depression, I get how hard life can be & have tried & true strategies to get you feeling better, in the quickest way possible.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unsure of what to do or even what options there are for next steps? I hear you & I get it. I have walked along side individuals in their healing journey for the past 10 years & I'd be honored to walk along side you as you explore who you are & how to be a more full version of yourself, content & at peace within yourself. I work with people who face a variety of challenges in life, from a mental health issue like anxiety or depression to toxic relationships, traumas, & problematic patterns in life. I am direct & non-judgmental, I offer compassion & help you get the solutions for which you are looking.
(414) 269-5853 View (414) 269-5853
Photo of Anita Astley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Anita Astley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Anita Astley is the founder and CEO of "Building Healthy Relationships" LLC and published author of “Unfuck Your Life and Relationships" (Simon & Schuster). She is a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist with over 25 years of experience in helping people navigate life's challenges including basic communication issues to depression, anxiety, emotional and physical intimacy issues, separation and divorce, conflict resolution, and infidelity to name a few. Ms.Astley is "solution focused" and believes there is a "solution" to every problem and arriving there successfully is possible through professional guidance & support.
Anita Astley is the founder and CEO of "Building Healthy Relationships" LLC and published author of “Unfuck Your Life and Relationships" (Simon & Schuster). She is a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist with over 25 years of experience in helping people navigate life's challenges including basic communication issues to depression, anxiety, emotional and physical intimacy issues, separation and divorce, conflict resolution, and infidelity to name a few. Ms.Astley is "solution focused" and believes there is a "solution" to every problem and arriving there successfully is possible through professional guidance & support.
(262) 300-7231 View (262) 300-7231
Photo of Diane M Bailey Yoder in Milwaukee, WI
Diane M Bailey Yoder
MS, LCPC, NCC, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
If you’re in a moment of transition; experiencing anger, anxiety, grief, depression, then I want to connect with you. I see my role as to provide an accepting, warm and nurturing environment where you can comfortably express your feelings. I believe that no emotion is wrong but there are healthy and helpful ways to process them that we can access together. My therapeutic approach is direct and unique to each individual I work with. No two people are alike and your treatment shouldn't be either.
If you’re in a moment of transition; experiencing anger, anxiety, grief, depression, then I want to connect with you. I see my role as to provide an accepting, warm and nurturing environment where you can comfortably express your feelings. I believe that no emotion is wrong but there are healthy and helpful ways to process them that we can access together. My therapeutic approach is direct and unique to each individual I work with. No two people are alike and your treatment shouldn't be either.
(224) 308-1415 View (224) 308-1415
Photo of Kathy Schaetzke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Kathy Schaetzke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I work with a broad range of mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss.
I know from my own experience how difficult it is to take the first step toward getting help. Once you've done that, you must face the difficult task of choosing a therapist. This is a very important and personal decision since the success of treatment is dependent on the client/therapist relationship. I believe the therapist/client relationship should be a collaborative one where we work as a team toward your goals.
I work with a broad range of mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss.
I know from my own experience how difficult it is to take the first step toward getting help. Once you've done that, you must face the difficult task of choosing a therapist. This is a very important and personal decision since the success of treatment is dependent on the client/therapist relationship. I believe the therapist/client relationship should be a collaborative one where we work as a team toward your goals.
(414) 795-9390 View (414) 795-9390
Photo of Dennis L Merritt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Dennis L Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, SC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Life is a journey and the secret to fulfillment is learning how to journey well. Everyone gets stuck at various points on the journey. Symptoms then emerge that vary with the individual, such as depression, anxiety, compulsions, sleep problems, etc. When we need help, we look for someone with experience and a good psychological base to help us discover why we are stuck and how we keep ourselves stuck. We want someone who will help us find our voice and not superimpose their beliefs and judgments on us. My Jungian ecopsychology framework also helps those who are worried about environmental issues .
Life is a journey and the secret to fulfillment is learning how to journey well. Everyone gets stuck at various points on the journey. Symptoms then emerge that vary with the individual, such as depression, anxiety, compulsions, sleep problems, etc. When we need help, we look for someone with experience and a good psychological base to help us discover why we are stuck and how we keep ourselves stuck. We want someone who will help us find our voice and not superimpose their beliefs and judgments on us. My Jungian ecopsychology framework also helps those who are worried about environmental issues .
(414) 369-2949 View (414) 369-2949
Photo of Tracie J. Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Tracie J. Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53206
Clients have come to see me for counseling with a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, PTSD, and ADHD. My treatment approach is to help individuals reach their goals by using evidence-based methods and techniques. That means, from a client-centered perspective, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), desensitization, mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR), and positive psychology when it is necessary and appropriate to suite the individual's needs.
Clients have come to see me for counseling with a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, PTSD, and ADHD. My treatment approach is to help individuals reach their goals by using evidence-based methods and techniques. That means, from a client-centered perspective, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), desensitization, mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR), and positive psychology when it is necessary and appropriate to suite the individual's needs.
(414) 269-3546 View (414) 269-3546
Photo of Cedar Lake Counseling in Milwaukee, WI
Cedar Lake Counseling
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53217
FREE PHONE CONSULTATIONS WITH DR. BLOEMER* will help establish your appointment with a best-fit therapist among our twelve therapists, who possess up to 30 years of experience. Specializations include Advanced Therapies (Brain-based treatment) for complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional pain, addictions and more. As symptom relief is achieved as quickly as possible, we assist in helping you improve your significant relationships and support your efforts toward achieving holistic awareness, life balance, and meaningful, personal growth.
FREE PHONE CONSULTATIONS WITH DR. BLOEMER* will help establish your appointment with a best-fit therapist among our twelve therapists, who possess up to 30 years of experience. Specializations include Advanced Therapies (Brain-based treatment) for complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, emotional pain, addictions and more. As symptom relief is achieved as quickly as possible, we assist in helping you improve your significant relationships and support your efforts toward achieving holistic awareness, life balance, and meaningful, personal growth.
(262) 947-4378 View (262) 947-4378
Photo of Dan Buehler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Dan Buehler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53224
Waitlist for new clients
Over the past ten years I have worked in the mental health field in a variety of capacities, including inpatient units, residential facilities, and day treatment settings. My experience and training with adolescents, adults, and families in these settings has given me a practical knowledge and understanding when working alongside my clients to facilitate change. A significant part of my experience has been working with adults and adolescents coping with past trauma to adjust and move past stuck points, decrease depression, and move forward on the life they want to live.
Over the past ten years I have worked in the mental health field in a variety of capacities, including inpatient units, residential facilities, and day treatment settings. My experience and training with adolescents, adults, and families in these settings has given me a practical knowledge and understanding when working alongside my clients to facilitate change. A significant part of my experience has been working with adults and adolescents coping with past trauma to adjust and move past stuck points, decrease depression, and move forward on the life they want to live.
(414) 509-0567 View (414) 509-0567
Photo of Dr. Therese Borges, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Dr. Therese Borges
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
I can help address a variety of concerns including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief/loss, identity development, overcoming painful experiences, and overall well-being.
Life is filled with peaks and valleys and it is my goal to help you navigate life's challenges and aid in your personal growth to become the best and healthiest version of yourself. I view therapy as a collaborative process and believe that you are the expert in your own life. I provide a safe and supportive space for you to start doing the deep and rewarding work of facing your struggles and moving towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I can help address a variety of concerns including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief/loss, identity development, overcoming painful experiences, and overall well-being.
Life is filled with peaks and valleys and it is my goal to help you navigate life's challenges and aid in your personal growth to become the best and healthiest version of yourself. I view therapy as a collaborative process and believe that you are the expert in your own life. I provide a safe and supportive space for you to start doing the deep and rewarding work of facing your struggles and moving towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(414) 501-7008 View (414) 501-7008
Dr. Lauri C. Gebhard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53213
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? Perfectionism? Low self esteem? Infertility? Weight Problems? Trauma? ADD? or Memory Problems? I can help. I am a clinical health psychologist with a specialty in behavioral medicine and am dedicated to empowering patients to positively heal their mind, body and spirit. With the specialty training I received in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, I founded the Mind Body Program over 25 years ago. We employ innovative practices
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? Perfectionism? Low self esteem? Infertility? Weight Problems? Trauma? ADD? or Memory Problems? I can help. I am a clinical health psychologist with a specialty in behavioral medicine and am dedicated to empowering patients to positively heal their mind, body and spirit. With the specialty training I received in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, I founded the Mind Body Program over 25 years ago. We employ innovative practices
(262) 214-5777 View (262) 214-5777

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.