Depression Therapists in Cheyenne, WY

Photo of Adelaide Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Adelaide Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
I am Adelaide Wilson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use several approaches to therapy and decide with my clients which may be the best option. I am passionate about helping adults: individuals and couples become the best versions of themselves when they address the unique challenges life gives. I specialize in addiction: to alcohol, drugs, or gambling, loss and grief, and working through life transitions. I work with adults: individuals and couples. I treat issues related to stress, addiction, loss/grief, depression, trauma, communication, relationship concerns, anxiety, life transitions, and work/job-related issues.
I am Adelaide Wilson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use several approaches to therapy and decide with my clients which may be the best option. I am passionate about helping adults: individuals and couples become the best versions of themselves when they address the unique challenges life gives. I specialize in addiction: to alcohol, drugs, or gambling, loss and grief, and working through life transitions. I work with adults: individuals and couples. I treat issues related to stress, addiction, loss/grief, depression, trauma, communication, relationship concerns, anxiety, life transitions, and work/job-related issues.
(307) 392-5984 View (307) 392-5984
Photo of Mary Beth Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Mary Beth Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Waitlist for new clients
I help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, anger management, effective communication skills, life changes and transitions, grief and loss, motivation, increasing self-esteem and self-confidence, emotion regulation, LGBTQ issues, dealing with family conflict, relationship-building for premarital and couples therapy, and rebuilding after a breakup.
I am a licensed psychotherapist, providing person-centered and trauma-informed care for individuals, couples and families. I endeavor to help clients heal and develop more effective and adaptive behavior for a more fulfilling life. Clients are helped to learn and use positive, effective coping skills and to develop the motivation to reach their greatest potential. I take into account dealing with life challenges, as well at being at different stages of readiness and change. Clients are helped to move forward at their ideal pace.
I help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, anger management, effective communication skills, life changes and transitions, grief and loss, motivation, increasing self-esteem and self-confidence, emotion regulation, LGBTQ issues, dealing with family conflict, relationship-building for premarital and couples therapy, and rebuilding after a breakup.
I am a licensed psychotherapist, providing person-centered and trauma-informed care for individuals, couples and families. I endeavor to help clients heal and develop more effective and adaptive behavior for a more fulfilling life. Clients are helped to learn and use positive, effective coping skills and to develop the motivation to reach their greatest potential. I take into account dealing with life challenges, as well at being at different stages of readiness and change. Clients are helped to move forward at their ideal pace.
(307) 317-2391 View (307) 317-2391
Photo of Roxann Shook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Roxann Shook
Licensed Professional Counselor, Roxann Shook, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82009  (Online Only)
I work with adult women who are engaged in self-discovery and personal growth. They often face challenges such as anxiety, depression, or trauma and are seeking understanding and healing. They long for a safe space to explore their emotions, past experiences, and core beliefs. They endeavor to cultivate self-awareness, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. They want to know how to break free from destructive patterns, improve relationships, and make a life worth living. Ultimately, they desire to live authentically and experience profound meaning and purpose in their lives.
I work with adult women who are engaged in self-discovery and personal growth. They often face challenges such as anxiety, depression, or trauma and are seeking understanding and healing. They long for a safe space to explore their emotions, past experiences, and core beliefs. They endeavor to cultivate self-awareness, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. They want to know how to break free from destructive patterns, improve relationships, and make a life worth living. Ultimately, they desire to live authentically and experience profound meaning and purpose in their lives.
(970) 341-2118 View (970) 341-2118
Photo of Bob Funk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Bob Funk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CTS
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Over 40 years of experience in treating relationships, marriage counseling, anger, depression, anxiety and trauma. His experience is extensive including supervising psychologists, therapists, alcohol and drug counselors, and administrative staff. Bob is a nationally board certified professional counselor and a certified trauma specialist having been certified by 4 national trauma organizations.
Over 40 years of experience in treating relationships, marriage counseling, anger, depression, anxiety and trauma. His experience is extensive including supervising psychologists, therapists, alcohol and drug counselors, and administrative staff. Bob is a nationally board certified professional counselor and a certified trauma specialist having been certified by 4 national trauma organizations.
(307) 240-2928 View (307) 240-2928
Photo of Mindy Falkner-Wann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Mindy Falkner-Wann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
We are all human, therefore we all have problems from time to time. It’s in those times of trouble that we sometimes need help. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Counseling and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Cheyenne, WY. Getting to apply my skills with a variety of people and problems is really where I find purpose. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or another problem, I would be honored to help in your time of need.
We are all human, therefore we all have problems from time to time. It’s in those times of trouble that we sometimes need help. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Counseling and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Cheyenne, WY. Getting to apply my skills with a variety of people and problems is really where I find purpose. Whether it's depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or another problem, I would be honored to help in your time of need.
(307) 317-7472 View (307) 317-7472
Photo of Frank Shablo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Frank Shablo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
My name is Frank Shablo and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Green River, Wyoming and offering services statewide via telehealth. My primary modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Reality Therapy, and specialize in helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, serious and persistent mental illness, and substance dependence. I find the best approach to client communication is positive regard. Establishing a therapeutic relationship requires a warm and consistent temperament, active listening, and clearly expressing my understanding of my client's needs.
My name is Frank Shablo and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Green River, Wyoming and offering services statewide via telehealth. My primary modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Reality Therapy, and specialize in helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, serious and persistent mental illness, and substance dependence. I find the best approach to client communication is positive regard. Establishing a therapeutic relationship requires a warm and consistent temperament, active listening, and clearly expressing my understanding of my client's needs.
(307) 240-6093 View (307) 240-6093
Photo of Lexie Harper-Goodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Lexie Harper-Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001  (Online Only)
I work with women, expectant and new parents to address sadness, stress, fear, depression, grief, loneliness, guilt and shame.
Everyone gets stuck and overwhelmed. Feelings of sadness, stress, fear, grief, loneliness, guilt and shame can be painful and make us feel trapped. You are not alone. Everyone requires more self-compassion, kindness and hope. With help, we can explore your thoughts and feelings and strengthen your ability to manage life's ongoing challenges. I appreciate and acknowledge the courage it takes to ask for help and make change. I would be delighted and honored to work with you through your journey.
I work with women, expectant and new parents to address sadness, stress, fear, depression, grief, loneliness, guilt and shame.
Everyone gets stuck and overwhelmed. Feelings of sadness, stress, fear, grief, loneliness, guilt and shame can be painful and make us feel trapped. You are not alone. Everyone requires more self-compassion, kindness and hope. With help, we can explore your thoughts and feelings and strengthen your ability to manage life's ongoing challenges. I appreciate and acknowledge the courage it takes to ask for help and make change. I would be delighted and honored to work with you through your journey.
(307) 414-9113 View (307) 414-9113
Photo of Catherine Fuller, Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Catherine Fuller
Counselor, PhD-ABD, PPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been found to be one of the most successful treatments for Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Stress, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury and more.
I love helping adults and teens find solutions to everyday life problems using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). My passion is helping people find that lasting solution when they begin to understand their thoughts, beliefs, and actions. I use a variety of techniques including talk, art, journaling, and more.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been found to be one of the most successful treatments for Anxiety, Depression, Chronic Stress, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury and more.
I love helping adults and teens find solutions to everyday life problems using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). My passion is helping people find that lasting solution when they begin to understand their thoughts, beliefs, and actions. I use a variety of techniques including talk, art, journaling, and more.
(307) 317-5766 View (307) 317-5766
Photo of Susan Schilt, Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Susan Schilt
Counselor, PPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001
I work with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, behavior issues in children, and relationship challenges.
Life is not fair. Many of us have learned this in very difficult or traumatic ways. Many of us bear the wounds and scars of broken marriages, families, or abuse; feel overwhelmed and alone; believe we are unloved or rejected; have thoughts we can not control; or can not seem to stop behaviors we know hurt us and those we love. We also know deep down this is not how it is supposed to be. Life is meant to be lived with abundant joy, peace, deep and fulfilling relationships, and acceptance and celebration of who we were created to be. Those who seek help through therapy are the most courageous people I know.
I work with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, behavior issues in children, and relationship challenges.
Life is not fair. Many of us have learned this in very difficult or traumatic ways. Many of us bear the wounds and scars of broken marriages, families, or abuse; feel overwhelmed and alone; believe we are unloved or rejected; have thoughts we can not control; or can not seem to stop behaviors we know hurt us and those we love. We also know deep down this is not how it is supposed to be. Life is meant to be lived with abundant joy, peace, deep and fulfilling relationships, and acceptance and celebration of who we were created to be. Those who seek help through therapy are the most courageous people I know.
(307) 632-7771 View (307) 632-7771
Photo of Valerie Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Valerie Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Hi. Welcome! I have been a counselor in Cheyenne for over 15 years. My practice is specialized in working with trauma, children, adolescents, women's issues, divorce, depression, and anxiety. I truly believe that you have the ability and capability to heal, and I will assist you in obtaining your goal.
Hi. Welcome! I have been a counselor in Cheyenne for over 15 years. My practice is specialized in working with trauma, children, adolescents, women's issues, divorce, depression, and anxiety. I truly believe that you have the ability and capability to heal, and I will assist you in obtaining your goal.
(307) 213-3441 View (307) 213-3441
Photo of Adam Stuart-Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Adam Stuart-Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
My particular areas of interest lay in coming alongside families and couples by providing marriage-enrichment and communication skills. And specifically working with concerns of anxiety, depression, anger management and communication struggles. I find joy in helping people identify behaviors that negatively affect their lives and relationships with others. I work to bring an awareness to the other voices and instincts in our lives that tug at our hearts and help foster an ability to communicate with constructive and compelling reasonableness. ​
My particular areas of interest lay in coming alongside families and couples by providing marriage-enrichment and communication skills. And specifically working with concerns of anxiety, depression, anger management and communication struggles. I find joy in helping people identify behaviors that negatively affect their lives and relationships with others. I work to bring an awareness to the other voices and instincts in our lives that tug at our hearts and help foster an ability to communicate with constructive and compelling reasonableness. ​
(307) 227-4172 View (307) 227-4172
Photo of Jessica Schnug, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cheyenne, WY
Jessica Schnug
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, PCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001
I support clients from many different walks of life including issues with self-esteem, relationship hardships, trauma, anxiety, depression, feelings of overwhelming stress in adolescents and adults using a variety of techniques.
Hello! I’m happy you’re here! I have unwavering enthusiasm for social work and it fuels my commitment to offering essential mental health services (both online and in person) within my community. My focus has consistently gravitated toward supporting individuals who have endured or are currently navigating trauma, as I find great fulfillment in aiding them on their journey towards healing and comprehension. ​ My dedication extends to addressing the challenges of anxiety and depression among both adolescents and adults.
I support clients from many different walks of life including issues with self-esteem, relationship hardships, trauma, anxiety, depression, feelings of overwhelming stress in adolescents and adults using a variety of techniques.
Hello! I’m happy you’re here! I have unwavering enthusiasm for social work and it fuels my commitment to offering essential mental health services (both online and in person) within my community. My focus has consistently gravitated toward supporting individuals who have endured or are currently navigating trauma, as I find great fulfillment in aiding them on their journey towards healing and comprehension. ​ My dedication extends to addressing the challenges of anxiety and depression among both adolescents and adults.
(307) 414-1894 View (307) 414-1894
Photo of Jessica Jaycox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Jessica Jaycox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
I have worked with a wide variety of conditions including trauma treatment, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, life changes, self-esteem and body image.
Hello! My name is Jessica Jaycox, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Wyoming. I truly believe that you are the expert in your life and that my role is to walk alongside you in your healing journey. I have experience working with a variety of areas including addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and body image and self-esteem. I work with a wide variety of clients including children through adults. I enjoy working with littles as well as with teenagers.
I have worked with a wide variety of conditions including trauma treatment, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, life changes, self-esteem and body image.
Hello! My name is Jessica Jaycox, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Wyoming. I truly believe that you are the expert in your life and that my role is to walk alongside you in your healing journey. I have experience working with a variety of areas including addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and body image and self-esteem. I work with a wide variety of clients including children through adults. I enjoy working with littles as well as with teenagers.
(307) 219-5634 View (307) 219-5634
Photo of Michelle Gonyo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Michelle Gonyo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001  (Online Only)
Are you looking to improve your overall well-being? If you're feeling stuck, stressed out, depressed, or anxious, there is likely an underlying reason for it. We will work together to gain insight into the contributing factors that are creating these every day challenges and develop an action plan that can lead to positive change and greater life satisfaction. We will identify strategies and skills to improve your spiritual, physical, intellectual, relational, and emotional health. Life can be hard, with difficulties along the way, but we are capable of healing, and growing even stronger.
Are you looking to improve your overall well-being? If you're feeling stuck, stressed out, depressed, or anxious, there is likely an underlying reason for it. We will work together to gain insight into the contributing factors that are creating these every day challenges and develop an action plan that can lead to positive change and greater life satisfaction. We will identify strategies and skills to improve your spiritual, physical, intellectual, relational, and emotional health. Life can be hard, with difficulties along the way, but we are capable of healing, and growing even stronger.
(307) 243-4232 View (307) 243-4232
Photo of Joseph A Madrid, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Joseph A Madrid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
My areas of treatment include: Abandonment; ADHD; Adoption; Anger Management; Anxiety; Behavioral Issues; Bipolar Disorder; Coping Skills; Depression; Divorce; Domestic Violence; Family Conflict; Grief; Parenting; Relationship Issues; Self-Esteem; Severe and Persistent Mental Illnesses; Sexual Abuse; Stress; Trauma and PTSD.
Everyone has struggles or hurdles presented in their lives that sometimes will require an objective opinion. I work collaboratively with people to look at issues from a different perspective. Reaching out to someone for the first time takes tremendous strength of character and courage. I am passionate about this work and it is an honor and pleasure to work with clients who are invested in making positive changes in their lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and private practitioner who has over 25 years of experience working with children, families, couples, and individuals in the Cheyenne area.
My areas of treatment include: Abandonment; ADHD; Adoption; Anger Management; Anxiety; Behavioral Issues; Bipolar Disorder; Coping Skills; Depression; Divorce; Domestic Violence; Family Conflict; Grief; Parenting; Relationship Issues; Self-Esteem; Severe and Persistent Mental Illnesses; Sexual Abuse; Stress; Trauma and PTSD.
Everyone has struggles or hurdles presented in their lives that sometimes will require an objective opinion. I work collaboratively with people to look at issues from a different perspective. Reaching out to someone for the first time takes tremendous strength of character and courage. I am passionate about this work and it is an honor and pleasure to work with clients who are invested in making positive changes in their lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and private practitioner who has over 25 years of experience working with children, families, couples, and individuals in the Cheyenne area.
(307) 414-1852 View (307) 414-1852
Photo of Laura Kietell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Laura Kietell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and couples. A sample of issues I am experienced in working with include but are not limited to: anxiety, relationships, self esteem, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief and loss. I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma. I also work with pet loss. I am here to help others see their value, fulfill their authentic selves and live life as they see fit. I am also a DQCS for those in need of clinical supervision.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and couples. A sample of issues I am experienced in working with include but are not limited to: anxiety, relationships, self esteem, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief and loss. I am certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma. I also work with pet loss. I am here to help others see their value, fulfill their authentic selves and live life as they see fit. I am also a DQCS for those in need of clinical supervision.
(307) 240-2703 View (307) 240-2703
Photo of Heidi McCarty, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cheyenne, WY
Heidi McCarty
Pre-Licensed Professional, PPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
I specialize in serving various populations including individuals struggling with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, complicated emotions, grief, trauma and relationship difficulties.
I believe that there is good in all of us and even though it may seem lost at times, we just need a little help to rediscover that good and use it to help us through life. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place for you to discuss your difficulties and find your good and the answers to help you through your life. Education: Bellevue University Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling University of Phoenix Master's Degree in School Counseling Brigham Young University Bachelor's Degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development
I specialize in serving various populations including individuals struggling with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, complicated emotions, grief, trauma and relationship difficulties.
I believe that there is good in all of us and even though it may seem lost at times, we just need a little help to rediscover that good and use it to help us through life. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place for you to discuss your difficulties and find your good and the answers to help you through your life. Education: Bellevue University Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling University of Phoenix Master's Degree in School Counseling Brigham Young University Bachelor's Degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development
(307) 209-9013 View (307) 209-9013
Photo of Adina Loomis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cheyenne, WY
Adina Loomis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression are signals from your mind and body that something in life needs your attention. They are messengers inviting you into a journey of growth and of healing your relationship with yourself. A lot of times we’re not even aware of the negative beliefs and perceptions we’re holding that are weighing us down, but they are reflected to us in our frequent moods, our thought patterns, our relationships, and especially where we feel stuck. This is also a journey of learning to shift from living in the mind to enjoying being in our body and making choices from a place of connection rather than from fear.
Anxiety and depression are signals from your mind and body that something in life needs your attention. They are messengers inviting you into a journey of growth and of healing your relationship with yourself. A lot of times we’re not even aware of the negative beliefs and perceptions we’re holding that are weighing us down, but they are reflected to us in our frequent moods, our thought patterns, our relationships, and especially where we feel stuck. This is also a journey of learning to shift from living in the mind to enjoying being in our body and making choices from a place of connection rather than from fear.
(307) 448-1193 View (307) 448-1193
Photo of Jesse Okeefe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Jesse Okeefe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheyenne, WY 82001  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the grip of depression or anxiety, and finding yourself trapped in the cycle of loneliness? It's completely natural to experience a sense of hopelessness during these times. Even relationships, which are meant to bring joy, can sometimes lead to unhappiness. If you're struggling with these challenges, I'm here to guide you towards a brighter path. In the therapeutic journey, we'll embark on a process of self-discovery, unraveling the complexities of both your past and present self. This exploration is a transformative step that opens doors to a life filled with fulfillment and meaning.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the grip of depression or anxiety, and finding yourself trapped in the cycle of loneliness? It's completely natural to experience a sense of hopelessness during these times. Even relationships, which are meant to bring joy, can sometimes lead to unhappiness. If you're struggling with these challenges, I'm here to guide you towards a brighter path. In the therapeutic journey, we'll embark on a process of self-discovery, unraveling the complexities of both your past and present self. This exploration is a transformative step that opens doors to a life filled with fulfillment and meaning.
(307) 275-7179 View (307) 275-7179
Photo of Stephanie A McMackin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cheyenne, WY
Stephanie A McMackin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty areas include trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, child abuse and neglect, parent-child relationships, sexual abuse victimization, child behavioral issues, domestic violence, women's issues, and life adjustment challenges for individuals, couples, and families.
I love people and I have a passion for assisting others in finding ways unique to them to become more content and happier in their lives. At different times, everyone experiences life difficulties and oftentimes it helps to have a safe, secure, and confidential person to share and work through your burdens and thoughts with. I work with children 6 years and older, teens, and adults on various life challenges.
My specialty areas include trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, child abuse and neglect, parent-child relationships, sexual abuse victimization, child behavioral issues, domestic violence, women's issues, and life adjustment challenges for individuals, couples, and families.
I love people and I have a passion for assisting others in finding ways unique to them to become more content and happier in their lives. At different times, everyone experiences life difficulties and oftentimes it helps to have a safe, secure, and confidential person to share and work through your burdens and thoughts with. I work with children 6 years and older, teens, and adults on various life challenges.
(307) 438-8021 View (307) 438-8021
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.