Depression Therapists in Wauwatosa, WI

Photo of Dan Buehler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Dan Buehler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
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 Anne Marie Mustafa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Anne Marie Mustafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I am Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children (starting at age 13), adolescents and adults. As a strengths based and client-focused therapist, I utilize research based strategies and techniques (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing) to assist clients who are dealing with various mental health issues (anxiety, depression, anger management, stress disorders, substance use, grief and trauma).
I am Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children (starting at age 13), adolescents and adults. As a strengths based and client-focused therapist, I utilize research based strategies and techniques (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing) to assist clients who are dealing with various mental health issues (anxiety, depression, anger management, stress disorders, substance use, grief and trauma).
(414) 251-2055 View (414) 251-2055
Photo of Russell S Strelnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauwatosa, WI
Russell S Strelnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
My fundamental approach is to encourage you to practice returning to your composure and self acceptance instead of practicing depression, anxiety and stressing out.
LEARN HOW TO MELT STRESS. I will teach you how to return to your composure so you can think clearly again and direct your actions towards doing what you 'can do' and stop worrying about the rest. www.firststepacceptance.com is my website. Insurance companies that I accept are listed. I also offer a sliding scale. Videos explaining how I approach healing work are also available.
My fundamental approach is to encourage you to practice returning to your composure and self acceptance instead of practicing depression, anxiety and stressing out.
LEARN HOW TO MELT STRESS. I will teach you how to return to your composure so you can think clearly again and direct your actions towards doing what you 'can do' and stop worrying about the rest. www.firststepacceptance.com is my website. Insurance companies that I accept are listed. I also offer a sliding scale. Videos explaining how I approach healing work are also available.
(414) 375-2790 View (414) 375-2790
Photo of Tina Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Tina Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in helping young adults experiencing elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety due to life transitions, low self-esteem, and the impacts of social media.
Hi there! I'm a licensed counselor with a desire to help individuals become acutely aware of their worth and purpose in the world. Through an exploration of each individual’s unique psychosocial history and presenting circumstances, we collaboratively determine the evidenced-based treatment interventions that best cater to the client. I find value in incorporating a multi-systemic framework, helping clients identify how their various systems (family, friends, work, school, and community) contribute to presenting symptoms. I also welcome the opportunity to integrate faith into sessions to the extent that one is comfortable.
I have a particular interest in helping young adults experiencing elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety due to life transitions, low self-esteem, and the impacts of social media.
Hi there! I'm a licensed counselor with a desire to help individuals become acutely aware of their worth and purpose in the world. Through an exploration of each individual’s unique psychosocial history and presenting circumstances, we collaboratively determine the evidenced-based treatment interventions that best cater to the client. I find value in incorporating a multi-systemic framework, helping clients identify how their various systems (family, friends, work, school, and community) contribute to presenting symptoms. I also welcome the opportunity to integrate faith into sessions to the extent that one is comfortable.
(414) 667-5572 View (414) 667-5572
Photo of Kristin Belkofer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Kristin Belkofer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, attachment issues, trauma and sexual abuse, ADHD, disordered eating, self injury, conduct disorders, and family/couples issues.
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, attachment issues, trauma and sexual abuse, ADHD, disordered eating, self injury, conduct disorders, and family/couples issues.
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
(414) 509-0880 View (414) 509-0880
Photo of Tara Magaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Tara Magaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I work with adults to address many types of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, abuse, trauma, as well as parenting concerns.
Sometimes, we need additional support to figure out the next step or to make a change in a positive direction. I understand that seeking help can be overwhelming. My priority is to provide a comfortable and safe place for you to talk about your personal issues and concerns. I am non-judgmental, patient and understanding. I have over 18 years of experience in individual and family counseling, working with a wide variety of issues.
I work with adults to address many types of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, abuse, trauma, as well as parenting concerns.
Sometimes, we need additional support to figure out the next step or to make a change in a positive direction. I understand that seeking help can be overwhelming. My priority is to provide a comfortable and safe place for you to talk about your personal issues and concerns. I am non-judgmental, patient and understanding. I have over 18 years of experience in individual and family counseling, working with a wide variety of issues.
(262) 355-4588 View (262) 355-4588
Photo of Vanessa Sager, Psychologist in Wauwatosa, WI
Vanessa Sager
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
EMAIL is best way to reach us.+ We excitedly announce that our providers are now proudly in network with Forward Health Plans also known as Title 19, T19, Badgercare, Badgercare Plus, and Medicaid. In addition, we see most patients who carry marketplace plans such as CCHP, Chorus Community Health Plans, and more. If you are looking for a save place to process matters such as depression, anxiety, life events, stress or specific goals, we would be excited to discuss more. Life may not be feeling as though it is going in directions you intend, there may be more bad days than good.
EMAIL is best way to reach us.+ We excitedly announce that our providers are now proudly in network with Forward Health Plans also known as Title 19, T19, Badgercare, Badgercare Plus, and Medicaid. In addition, we see most patients who carry marketplace plans such as CCHP, Chorus Community Health Plans, and more. If you are looking for a save place to process matters such as depression, anxiety, life events, stress or specific goals, we would be excited to discuss more. Life may not be feeling as though it is going in directions you intend, there may be more bad days than good.
(262) 439-0410 View (262) 439-0410
Photo of Michael Kiel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Michael Kiel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53222
Currently, I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress management, low self-esteem, phobias, parent and child relationships, and concerns related with autism and ADHD.
I am a therapist with a deep passion to help children, adolescents, and adults who suffer with different behavioral and mental health issues. My therapeutic approach will always remain collaborative. Therefore, whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, low self-esteem or stress management issues, I will take the time to listen to your problems and we will work together to create your own personal story of change toward a better life.
Currently, I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress management, low self-esteem, phobias, parent and child relationships, and concerns related with autism and ADHD.
I am a therapist with a deep passion to help children, adolescents, and adults who suffer with different behavioral and mental health issues. My therapeutic approach will always remain collaborative. Therefore, whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, low self-esteem or stress management issues, I will take the time to listen to your problems and we will work together to create your own personal story of change toward a better life.
(414) 973-2623 View (414) 973-2623
Photo of Dave Doucette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Dave Doucette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Are you an adult struggling to be at your best at home, work, and w/ friends? Can you tell something's off but feel stuck or can’t put your finger on it? Maybe it’s stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or using substances to self-medicate? Let me guess - you want to talk about it but don’t know where to turn and don't want to be judged? You're not alone. Many adults try “white-knuckling” it & play tug-a-war w/ themselves until they burn out. Look no further. I am here for you. As a man, father, & person who stutters, I bring a unique and sensitive perspective to learn about you, what makes you tick, and your goals.
Are you an adult struggling to be at your best at home, work, and w/ friends? Can you tell something's off but feel stuck or can’t put your finger on it? Maybe it’s stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or using substances to self-medicate? Let me guess - you want to talk about it but don’t know where to turn and don't want to be judged? You're not alone. Many adults try “white-knuckling” it & play tug-a-war w/ themselves until they burn out. Look no further. I am here for you. As a man, father, & person who stutters, I bring a unique and sensitive perspective to learn about you, what makes you tick, and your goals.
(262) 755-1083 View (262) 755-1083
Photo of Kathy Schaetzke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Kathy Schaetzke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
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
Dr. Lauri C. Gebhard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, 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
Photo of Laura L Pauly, Psychologist in Wauwatosa, WI
Laura L Pauly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
We are living in challenging times where we can benefit from support. With a caring interactive approach I help clients unhook from past emotional habit patterns to create more fulfilling relationships and a happier life. --Through a greater sense of self-awareness, release of past pain, and application of technique, clients can: *Overcome depression, anxiety and low self esteem to express greater confidence and creativity *Reduce anger and conflict to improve communication and build stronger relationships. *Heal past issues, fears, hurts, and mistrust to achieve true intimacy and commitment.
We are living in challenging times where we can benefit from support. With a caring interactive approach I help clients unhook from past emotional habit patterns to create more fulfilling relationships and a happier life. --Through a greater sense of self-awareness, release of past pain, and application of technique, clients can: *Overcome depression, anxiety and low self esteem to express greater confidence and creativity *Reduce anger and conflict to improve communication and build stronger relationships. *Heal past issues, fears, hurts, and mistrust to achieve true intimacy and commitment.
(262) 789-7100 View (262) 789-7100
Photo of Amanda Volbrecht, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Amanda Volbrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use, low self-esteem, life transitions, and stress management.
Making impactful, long-lasting change can be difficult. Draining mental health symptoms, substance use, and trauma can contribute to making positive lasting change feel like an impossible and daunting task. I understand the importance of wanting to find that immediate relief, as well as identifying and treating the root of the problem. An essential part of our work is exploring the past and making connections between the past and present. I enjoy getting to know my clients as individuals, assisting them in their journey of learning about themselves, and helping them learn the skills they need to live a more meaningful life.
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use, low self-esteem, life transitions, and stress management.
Making impactful, long-lasting change can be difficult. Draining mental health symptoms, substance use, and trauma can contribute to making positive lasting change feel like an impossible and daunting task. I understand the importance of wanting to find that immediate relief, as well as identifying and treating the root of the problem. An essential part of our work is exploring the past and making connections between the past and present. I enjoy getting to know my clients as individuals, assisting them in their journey of learning about themselves, and helping them learn the skills they need to live a more meaningful life.
(414) 348-5542 View (414) 348-5542
Photo of Heather Hart Kennedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauwatosa, WI
Heather Hart Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I view psychotherapy as a powerful tool for breaking out of confusion and pain. I work with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, performance, life transitions, job problems, relationship issues, loneliness, and unhappiness. I actively and compassionately work with individuals (adults and adolescents) to help them regain a sense of hope, meaning, and connection in their lives, improving their coping skills and to manage daily stress and overcome destructive behaviors. As a therapist, I work with people to create the lives they want, allowing them to interact more successfully in their families, relationships, and the broader community.
I view psychotherapy as a powerful tool for breaking out of confusion and pain. I work with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, performance, life transitions, job problems, relationship issues, loneliness, and unhappiness. I actively and compassionately work with individuals (adults and adolescents) to help them regain a sense of hope, meaning, and connection in their lives, improving their coping skills and to manage daily stress and overcome destructive behaviors. As a therapist, I work with people to create the lives they want, allowing them to interact more successfully in their families, relationships, and the broader community.
(414) 263-9090 View (414) 263-9090
Photo of Mind body spirit program, Psychologist in Wauwatosa, WI
Mind body spirit program
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? High blood pressure? chronic pain? PMS? Infertility? Cancer? 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. I have received specialty training in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center. I imploy innovative practices: EMDR, hypnosis, and meditation, to improve the lives of her patients.
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? High blood pressure? chronic pain? PMS? Infertility? Cancer? 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. I have received specialty training in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center. I imploy innovative practices: EMDR, hypnosis, and meditation, to improve the lives of her patients.
(414) 939-7931 View (414) 939-7931
Photo of Carin A Pittleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauwatosa, WI
Carin A Pittleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53208
Are you feeling stressed out and overwhelmed? Seeing a therapist can be scary and takes courage. I use a Strength Based approach to deal with issues including anxiety, depression, health related issues, grief and loss, relationships, life transitions and parenting. By listening to you, reflecting and sharing information we will explore your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors in a gentle, safe and understanding environment. I am passionate about helping you think "outside the box" with regard to your personal development to regain confidence and hope.
Are you feeling stressed out and overwhelmed? Seeing a therapist can be scary and takes courage. I use a Strength Based approach to deal with issues including anxiety, depression, health related issues, grief and loss, relationships, life transitions and parenting. By listening to you, reflecting and sharing information we will explore your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors in a gentle, safe and understanding environment. I am passionate about helping you think "outside the box" with regard to your personal development to regain confidence and hope.
(262) 429-9629 View (262) 429-9629
Photo of Anna Weaver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauwatosa, WI
Anna Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Are you feeling stuck and/or unfulfilled in life but don't know what direction to go? Is worry and stress preventing you from experiencing true happiness? Are you struggling in a relationship or going through a divorce? We are all going through something. Let me help you gain a new perspective on things. I am a licensed psychotherapist with over twenty five years of experience. I specialize working with individual dealing with midlife transition issues including high-stress careers, relationship issues, adjustment difficulties, depression, anxiety, work-related issues, and overall personal and professional development.
Are you feeling stuck and/or unfulfilled in life but don't know what direction to go? Is worry and stress preventing you from experiencing true happiness? Are you struggling in a relationship or going through a divorce? We are all going through something. Let me help you gain a new perspective on things. I am a licensed psychotherapist with over twenty five years of experience. I specialize working with individual dealing with midlife transition issues including high-stress careers, relationship issues, adjustment difficulties, depression, anxiety, work-related issues, and overall personal and professional development.
(262) 427-6168 View (262) 427-6168
Photo of Cindy Vee Milner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauwatosa, WI
Cindy Vee Milner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213  (Online Only)
I have been providing therapy for over 30 years, specializing in treating anxiety, panic attacks, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, relationship issues and individuals with disabilities. Life provides us with numerous challenges and struggles, however, I have found that we have the ability to create many do-overs during our life-time. Therapy is a great way to create change, learn self-acceptance and heal.
I have been providing therapy for over 30 years, specializing in treating anxiety, panic attacks, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, relationship issues and individuals with disabilities. Life provides us with numerous challenges and struggles, however, I have found that we have the ability to create many do-overs during our life-time. Therapy is a great way to create change, learn self-acceptance and heal.
(414) 369-2932 View (414) 369-2932
Photo of Christine A Finerty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Christine A Finerty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
You deserve to live a full, happy and healthy life! Sadness doesn't have to mean depression and worry doesn't have to mean anxiety.
Have you noticed a change in yourself or a loved one lately? It can happen to all of us. Worry, stress, negative thoughts and fear have a way of weighing us down and holding us back. But, you deserve more. In this ever-changing world it's important, now more than ever before, to understand what to pay attention to and what to let go of. However, with so much uncertainty surrounding us this can be a challenge. Let's talk. Together, through a proactive and strength-based approach, we will explore how you can regain the power and control needed to address and remove the mental barriers that are holding you back.
You deserve to live a full, happy and healthy life! Sadness doesn't have to mean depression and worry doesn't have to mean anxiety.
Have you noticed a change in yourself or a loved one lately? It can happen to all of us. Worry, stress, negative thoughts and fear have a way of weighing us down and holding us back. But, you deserve more. In this ever-changing world it's important, now more than ever before, to understand what to pay attention to and what to let go of. However, with so much uncertainty surrounding us this can be a challenge. Let's talk. Together, through a proactive and strength-based approach, we will explore how you can regain the power and control needed to address and remove the mental barriers that are holding you back.
(414) 376-4596 View (414) 376-4596
Photo of Leslie Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauwatosa, WI
Leslie Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC, CSAC, ICS-IT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I have a solid foundation in mental health and substance abuse counseling having worked with both adolescents and adults for the past thirteen years. I also enjoy working with college students and believe that being a student in today's world can be challenging with the pressures of academics, peers, and self-discovery. I appreciate working with adults to gain high self-confidence and self-esteem. It is very powerful for me to watch as clients life gain inner strength for themselves . I specialize in DBT, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, communication skills, stress management, and addictions. New clients can schedule today!
I have a solid foundation in mental health and substance abuse counseling having worked with both adolescents and adults for the past thirteen years. I also enjoy working with college students and believe that being a student in today's world can be challenging with the pressures of academics, peers, and self-discovery. I appreciate working with adults to gain high self-confidence and self-esteem. It is very powerful for me to watch as clients life gain inner strength for themselves . I specialize in DBT, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, communication skills, stress management, and addictions. New clients can schedule today!
(262) 429-9843 View (262) 429-9843
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.