Depression Therapists in Shawano County, WI

Photo of Dr. Erin Van Oss - Trinity Psychology & Wellness, Psychologist in Shawano County, WI
Dr. Erin Van Oss - Trinity Psychology & Wellness
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
I work on managing and treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, PTSD and more.
As a Licensed Psychologist, I offer counseling sessions for adults, children, couples, and families. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual, recognizing your diverse interests and unique personality. I aim to foster an environment of understanding, helping you gain awareness and practice effective skills that equip you to overcome personal obstacles and thrive.
I work on managing and treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, PTSD and more.
As a Licensed Psychologist, I offer counseling sessions for adults, children, couples, and families. I believe in the uniqueness of each individual, recognizing your diverse interests and unique personality. I aim to foster an environment of understanding, helping you gain awareness and practice effective skills that equip you to overcome personal obstacles and thrive.
(715) 553-5228 View (715) 553-5228
Photo of Sweetgrass Behavioral Health , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Sweetgrass Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to help individuals and families restore hope by finding their pathway to resilience and restoring balance in their lives. I am passionate about caring for those in need and honored to be a part of their journey toward healing. My areas of specialty are working with children, teens, and adults, specifically those with a trauma history, grief and loss, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and ADHD.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to help individuals and families restore hope by finding their pathway to resilience and restoring balance in their lives. I am passionate about caring for those in need and honored to be a part of their journey toward healing. My areas of specialty are working with children, teens, and adults, specifically those with a trauma history, grief and loss, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and ADHD.
(715) 769-5362 View (715) 769-5362
Photo of Majestic Wellness Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Majestic Wellness Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, AODA issues, I am here to support those who are struggling with substance abuse issues and mental health issues. I specialize in helping people identify their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how to make positive changes in their lives by taking responsibility for them. I enjoy guiding and supporting the difficult process one takes as they discover their true potential and trust the process of healing.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, AODA issues, I am here to support those who are struggling with substance abuse issues and mental health issues. I specialize in helping people identify their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how to make positive changes in their lives by taking responsibility for them. I enjoy guiding and supporting the difficult process one takes as they discover their true potential and trust the process of healing.
(715) 201-0361 View (715) 201-0361
Photo of Northwoods Counseling & Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Northwoods Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
Are you feeling as if you need to make some changes in your life but are unsure about where to begin? I strive to provide a safe, warm and nurturing environment for patients to heal and grow. My experience includes working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues and phase of life challenges. I've completed advanced training through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and have experience supporting women and couples coping with pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety, pregnancy loss and the transition to parenthood.
Are you feeling as if you need to make some changes in your life but are unsure about where to begin? I strive to provide a safe, warm and nurturing environment for patients to heal and grow. My experience includes working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues and phase of life challenges. I've completed advanced training through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and have experience supporting women and couples coping with pregnancy and postpartum depression/anxiety, pregnancy loss and the transition to parenthood.
(715) 489-5454 View (715) 489-5454
Photo of Mary Beth King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Mary Beth King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shawano, WI 54166
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the helping field for over 20 years, with the last 14 years focusing on uncovering the best therapies/techniques to address trauma, anxiety, grief, and depression, as well as addressing performance enhancement, which includes but is not limited to Brainspotting, Somatic therapies, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
As a psychotherapist, I love what I do. I am most passionate about empowering people to tap into their own innate and natural ability to heal and grow. My treatment philosophy is nonjudgmental, strength-based, and trauma informed. My therapeutic style is to help individuals find their inner gifts and challenge them in a compassionate and direct way. Every individual has their own personal journey that is unique to them all that is needed is a foundation of trust, respect, and equality for clients to heal. I believe as a helping professional it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of that path to wellness.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the helping field for over 20 years, with the last 14 years focusing on uncovering the best therapies/techniques to address trauma, anxiety, grief, and depression, as well as addressing performance enhancement, which includes but is not limited to Brainspotting, Somatic therapies, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
As a psychotherapist, I love what I do. I am most passionate about empowering people to tap into their own innate and natural ability to heal and grow. My treatment philosophy is nonjudgmental, strength-based, and trauma informed. My therapeutic style is to help individuals find their inner gifts and challenge them in a compassionate and direct way. Every individual has their own personal journey that is unique to them all that is needed is a foundation of trust, respect, and equality for clients to heal. I believe as a helping professional it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of that path to wellness.
(920) 764-5049 View (920) 764-5049
Photo of Jan McDonough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Jan McDonough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
I help my clients gain insight into their lives. I encourage client collaboration to choose goals and pace their therapy. Together, we take a non-judgmental view of emotions, thoughts, belief system and patterns adopted to cope with distress. In therapy, clients often discover how their defenses developed and how they presently affect them. The freedom to discard old patterns releases associated shame and encourages forgiveness and acceptance. I work to empower clients to learn about mindful choice and develop healthy relationships. Success is witnessing clients reclaim their authentic voice and live their authentic selves.
I help my clients gain insight into their lives. I encourage client collaboration to choose goals and pace their therapy. Together, we take a non-judgmental view of emotions, thoughts, belief system and patterns adopted to cope with distress. In therapy, clients often discover how their defenses developed and how they presently affect them. The freedom to discard old patterns releases associated shame and encourages forgiveness and acceptance. I work to empower clients to learn about mindful choice and develop healthy relationships. Success is witnessing clients reclaim their authentic voice and live their authentic selves.
(534) 344-3657 View (534) 344-3657
Photo of Be Well Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Be Well Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
Does being in love mean being in pain? Are you and your significant other having a hard time communicating or getting your needs met? Are you confused, anxious, sad or angry? Are you feeling less motivated? Having difficulty concentrating or sleeping? Do you feel distracted and find it hard to follow through? Are you questioning your goals or feel stuck? Are you questioning your family of origin and feel you have issues from the past that are unresolved? Are you grieving the loss of someone? Do you worry about yourself or your significant other and their bad habits? Are you a survivor?
Does being in love mean being in pain? Are you and your significant other having a hard time communicating or getting your needs met? Are you confused, anxious, sad or angry? Are you feeling less motivated? Having difficulty concentrating or sleeping? Do you feel distracted and find it hard to follow through? Are you questioning your goals or feel stuck? Are you questioning your family of origin and feel you have issues from the past that are unresolved? Are you grieving the loss of someone? Do you worry about yourself or your significant other and their bad habits? Are you a survivor?
(414) 501-2664 View (414) 501-2664
Photo of Wendy Haddock, Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Wendy Haddock
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Wendy Haddock. I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor at Summit View Counseling. I have over 16 years of experience working with people and families with complex mental health and substances abuse issues. I have a passion for helping people work through events and experiences in life, to find true self, and develop a path for whole person wellness.
Hello, I’m Wendy Haddock. I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor at Summit View Counseling. I have over 16 years of experience working with people and families with complex mental health and substances abuse issues. I have a passion for helping people work through events and experiences in life, to find true self, and develop a path for whole person wellness.
(801) 876-1583 View (801) 876-1583
Photo of Rosemary Knapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Rosemary Knapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
I've had the honor of working with people with a history of trauma throughout my life. PTSD, attachment disorder and dissociative disorders are normal responses to being exposed to Traumatic events. This is the way our brains try to protect us from being overwhelmed. We can get stuck feeling like the world is dangerous or the events are still occuring long after the trauma is over. Trauma Counseling helps our brains let go and heal the overwhelming events of our pasts. I truely believe we can heal from anything with the right treatment. Come and see if I'm the right therapist for you.
I've had the honor of working with people with a history of trauma throughout my life. PTSD, attachment disorder and dissociative disorders are normal responses to being exposed to Traumatic events. This is the way our brains try to protect us from being overwhelmed. We can get stuck feeling like the world is dangerous or the events are still occuring long after the trauma is over. Trauma Counseling helps our brains let go and heal the overwhelming events of our pasts. I truely believe we can heal from anything with the right treatment. Come and see if I'm the right therapist for you.
(920) 253-2197 View (920) 253-2197
Photo of Marissa Mueller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Marissa Mueller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
Do you want to feel more grounded and balanced? Do you ever feel like you're stuck repeating the same habits and behavioral patterns despite wanting to change? Or maybe you've gone through painful past experiences that you can't seem to get over even with time. Anxiety and that feeling of "overwhelm" can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and others, unable to move forward. You're ready to take even the smallest of steps towards your best life. You're ready to start doing something for YOU and to feel genuinely happy again. I believe in you and would love to support you on your journey!
Do you want to feel more grounded and balanced? Do you ever feel like you're stuck repeating the same habits and behavioral patterns despite wanting to change? Or maybe you've gone through painful past experiences that you can't seem to get over even with time. Anxiety and that feeling of "overwhelm" can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and others, unable to move forward. You're ready to take even the smallest of steps towards your best life. You're ready to start doing something for YOU and to feel genuinely happy again. I believe in you and would love to support you on your journey!
(715) 260-3780 View (715) 260-3780
Photo of New Depth Counseling & Wellness Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
New Depth Counseling & Wellness Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shawano, WI 54166
My purpose is to teach, guide, and support all those seeking to live up to their highest potential. My intentions as a psychotherapist are to help you understand, release, and heal the parts of "self" that are felt to be out of balance, stuck, and/or wounded. We have the innate ability to heal ourselves from past stories that no longer serve us in the present. This profound healing can transform your life to have more meaning and purpose. My area of strengths include treating trauma, secondary trauma, PTSD, attachment issues, performance issues, mood disorders, and/or other behavioral health issues hindering your quality of life.
My purpose is to teach, guide, and support all those seeking to live up to their highest potential. My intentions as a psychotherapist are to help you understand, release, and heal the parts of "self" that are felt to be out of balance, stuck, and/or wounded. We have the innate ability to heal ourselves from past stories that no longer serve us in the present. This profound healing can transform your life to have more meaning and purpose. My area of strengths include treating trauma, secondary trauma, PTSD, attachment issues, performance issues, mood disorders, and/or other behavioral health issues hindering your quality of life.
(920) 656-5622 View (920) 656-5622

Online Therapists

Photo of Rebecca Kersten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Rebecca Kersten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54911
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and dual diagnosis.
I believe meaningful change happens when an individual prioritizes themselves and that everyone holds the capacity to not only change, but to flourish. Therapy is an amazing way to start taking steps to heal and grow into the healthiest version of yourself. I utilize evidence-based practices and tailor my approach based on the needs of the client. Together we work collaboratively to identify barriers and find healthy ways to cope with distress or mental health concerns. I will begin this process by being your biggest advocate, however, my end-goal is to make sure that you become that person for yourself.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and dual diagnosis.
I believe meaningful change happens when an individual prioritizes themselves and that everyone holds the capacity to not only change, but to flourish. Therapy is an amazing way to start taking steps to heal and grow into the healthiest version of yourself. I utilize evidence-based practices and tailor my approach based on the needs of the client. Together we work collaboratively to identify barriers and find healthy ways to cope with distress or mental health concerns. I will begin this process by being your biggest advocate, however, my end-goal is to make sure that you become that person for yourself.
(920) 789-2975 x1001 View (920) 789-2975 x1001
Photo of Angie Schneider, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Angie Schneider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
I believe in our kids. I believe if they are given the opportunity to learn and express their emotions in healthy ways, as well as learn effective coping skills, they can thrive. As a therapist, my first goal is to connect and develop a trusting relationship with your child. I work with elementary & middle school age youth. My areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, death of a loved one, impulse control, divorce, a cancer diagnosis of a loved one, and self-esteem concerns. I provide a non-judgmental approach and incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, self-regulation skills, Client Centered and play therapy.
I believe in our kids. I believe if they are given the opportunity to learn and express their emotions in healthy ways, as well as learn effective coping skills, they can thrive. As a therapist, my first goal is to connect and develop a trusting relationship with your child. I work with elementary & middle school age youth. My areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, death of a loved one, impulse control, divorce, a cancer diagnosis of a loved one, and self-esteem concerns. I provide a non-judgmental approach and incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, self-regulation skills, Client Centered and play therapy.
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Photo of Chloe Kierszh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Chloe Kierszh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
De Pere, WI 54115
I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and relationships.
If you find yourself struggling to manage your emotions, cope with overwhelming thoughts, and feel like you are stuck – know that you are not alone and that you can get through this. If you are unsure about counseling or have had negative experiences in the past – know that you are not alone and that you deserve to have support. If talking about emotions sounds intimidating or you are unsure of how to talk about them in general – know that you are not alone. We can work together to find the skills that allow you to better manage and cope with emotions in a healthy and effective way.
I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and relationships.
If you find yourself struggling to manage your emotions, cope with overwhelming thoughts, and feel like you are stuck – know that you are not alone and that you can get through this. If you are unsure about counseling or have had negative experiences in the past – know that you are not alone and that you deserve to have support. If talking about emotions sounds intimidating or you are unsure of how to talk about them in general – know that you are not alone. We can work together to find the skills that allow you to better manage and cope with emotions in a healthy and effective way.
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Photo of Irma Rivera-Carlisle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Irma Rivera-Carlisle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oshkosh, WI 54903
Specializing in narcissism, depression, codependency, disordered eating, parent-adolescent conflict, foster care, and religion, I utilize an integrated theoretical approach; Attachment and Brain development, Family Systems, CBT and Psychodynamic.
Stress and worry can take its toll on our minds and bodies. If you experience high levels of these, or feel empty at the end of the day, I will provide a safe and caring environment with which to explore the causal factors. I enjoy working with codependency, Self-development, life transitions, and relational dynamics.
Specializing in narcissism, depression, codependency, disordered eating, parent-adolescent conflict, foster care, and religion, I utilize an integrated theoretical approach; Attachment and Brain development, Family Systems, CBT and Psychodynamic.
Stress and worry can take its toll on our minds and bodies. If you experience high levels of these, or feel empty at the end of the day, I will provide a safe and caring environment with which to explore the causal factors. I enjoy working with codependency, Self-development, life transitions, and relational dynamics.
(415) 851-3114 View (415) 851-3114
Photo of Julie Shea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Julie Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Neenah, WI 54956  (Online Only)
I specialize in solution and strength-based approaches within a cognitive behavior therapy model to manage depression, anxiety, adjustment related concerns.
Want to feel heard? Do you feel down or anxious and want to feel better? Do you want to move forward and live the life you want? I can be the therapist to help you get there. We will work together to piece things back into place so you can move on, be the person you know you are. You are strong and you ready to take the next step forward because you are here today. We'll use your strength and courage to push through to meet your goals. Starting therapy is difficult and scary. As a therapist I know how hard it is to ask for help from others. I provide a safe and comfortable space for my patients. When you are ready, I'm here.
I specialize in solution and strength-based approaches within a cognitive behavior therapy model to manage depression, anxiety, adjustment related concerns.
Want to feel heard? Do you feel down or anxious and want to feel better? Do you want to move forward and live the life you want? I can be the therapist to help you get there. We will work together to piece things back into place so you can move on, be the person you know you are. You are strong and you ready to take the next step forward because you are here today. We'll use your strength and courage to push through to meet your goals. Starting therapy is difficult and scary. As a therapist I know how hard it is to ask for help from others. I provide a safe and comfortable space for my patients. When you are ready, I'm here.
(920) 880-2651 View (920) 880-2651
Photo of Shelley Ann Janz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Shelley Ann Janz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working in the State of Wisconsin. During my career, I have over 10 years experience working with individuals experiencing grief, loss, and end of life concerns. My specialties also include; relationship/family issues, anger management, depression/anxiety issues, and life coaching personal development. I also have experience working with LGTBQ+ clients, as well as First Responder/Law Enforcement groups.
I am a Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working in the State of Wisconsin. During my career, I have over 10 years experience working with individuals experiencing grief, loss, and end of life concerns. My specialties also include; relationship/family issues, anger management, depression/anxiety issues, and life coaching personal development. I also have experience working with LGTBQ+ clients, as well as First Responder/Law Enforcement groups.
(920) 259-2732 View (920) 259-2732
Photo of Nicole Ann Millerd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shawano County, WI
Nicole Ann Millerd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshkosh, WI 54901
Waitlist for new clients
I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including, depression, anxiety, self-esteem or self-worth, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and self-harm.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step to living your best life! Are you struggling with a pattern of unhealthy and unsatisfying relationships or recovering from a painful breakup or divorce? I can help you heal and create the space for healthier, more satisfying relationships in the future. Are you struggling with the depression, anxiety, and isolation that comes with navigating a global pandemic? Have you experienced physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and are unsure of where to turn to? Do you struggle to regain power and agency over a life overwhelmed by trauma? Better days are on the horizon!
I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including, depression, anxiety, self-esteem or self-worth, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and self-harm.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step to living your best life! Are you struggling with a pattern of unhealthy and unsatisfying relationships or recovering from a painful breakup or divorce? I can help you heal and create the space for healthier, more satisfying relationships in the future. Are you struggling with the depression, anxiety, and isolation that comes with navigating a global pandemic? Have you experienced physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and are unsure of where to turn to? Do you struggle to regain power and agency over a life overwhelmed by trauma? Better days are on the horizon!
(920) 245-8613 View (920) 245-8613
Photo of Kathy A Herzog, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
Kathy A Herzog
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sheboygan, WI 53081
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults that have various symptoms including depression, anxiety, and self-esteem challenges.
I am a licensed professional counselor who provides psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. My specialty is working with individuals that have challenges with anxiety, depression; or grief. My experience is gained from both a clinical setting as well as providing services within schools. I collaborated with school staff and parents to provide students with quality therapy in their schools. My approach to therapy is based on cognitive behavioral therapy along with a very person-centered feel for what my clients need. I would be happy to talk with you about your therapy journey to better mental health and well-being.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults that have various symptoms including depression, anxiety, and self-esteem challenges.
I am a licensed professional counselor who provides psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. My specialty is working with individuals that have challenges with anxiety, depression; or grief. My experience is gained from both a clinical setting as well as providing services within schools. I collaborated with school staff and parents to provide students with quality therapy in their schools. My approach to therapy is based on cognitive behavioral therapy along with a very person-centered feel for what my clients need. I would be happy to talk with you about your therapy journey to better mental health and well-being.
(920) 250-9266 View (920) 250-9266
Photo of JCS Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shawano County, WI
JCS Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oneida, WI 54155  (Online Only)
Treatment Areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Unresolved Trauma, PTSD, Stress Management, Stages of Life complications/changes, Lifestyle Changes Modalities of Treatment Offered: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Person Centered, Solution Focused.
Hello and welcome, my name is Jodie Skenandore, Psychotherapist/Owner of JCS Counseling LLC. My goal and approach is to provide a warm, safe, accepting and supportive environment for individuals to be heard, seen, validated and understood. My role as a helping professional is to collaborate with you on this journey to heal, grow, build a strong sense of self and live the life that you deserve.
Treatment Areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Unresolved Trauma, PTSD, Stress Management, Stages of Life complications/changes, Lifestyle Changes Modalities of Treatment Offered: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Person Centered, Solution Focused.
Hello and welcome, my name is Jodie Skenandore, Psychotherapist/Owner of JCS Counseling LLC. My goal and approach is to provide a warm, safe, accepting and supportive environment for individuals to be heard, seen, validated and understood. My role as a helping professional is to collaborate with you on this journey to heal, grow, build a strong sense of self and live the life that you deserve.
(920) 315-3753 View (920) 315-3753

See more therapy options for Shawano County

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.