Photo of Sojourn Therapy and Wellness Center, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Duluth, GA
Sojourn Therapy and Wellness Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Healing from anything life throws our way is a process and a journey. All we have is the present moment, so why not make the best of it? Dealing with trauma, depression, grief, and mental illness is never easy but allow me to help you navigate those waters. Healing begins from the inside out so let us learn how to take charge of your thoughts, feelings, and actions to bring brighter tomorrows. What is important to you is important to me. Every day is the first day of the rest of your life!
Healing from anything life throws our way is a process and a journey. All we have is the present moment, so why not make the best of it? Dealing with trauma, depression, grief, and mental illness is never easy but allow me to help you navigate those waters. Healing begins from the inside out so let us learn how to take charge of your thoughts, feelings, and actions to bring brighter tomorrows. What is important to you is important to me. Every day is the first day of the rest of your life!
(470) 250-2815 View (470) 250-2815
Photo of Candace Prescott, Pre-Licensed Professional in Duluth, GA
Candace Prescott
Pre-Licensed Professional, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097  (Online Only)
I work with adults (18+), individuals couples, and LGBTQ+ clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, sexual identity, parenting, shame, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, stress, and relationship issues.
Walking into therapy is the first step to “Doing the Work”, healing and starting a new chapter isn’t easy, but it leads to a journey that is full of new choices and opportunities. My goal is to create a safe environment and allow clients to be free to express their issues and concerns without judgment. I am passionate about helping others draw from their strengths and natural pain if necessary to allow them to thrive. I want to help clients gain the skills and knowledge to create positive changes and walk in their purpose. I am devoted to helping clients find their balance by drawing from a variety of modalities.
I work with adults (18+), individuals couples, and LGBTQ+ clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, sexual identity, parenting, shame, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, stress, and relationship issues.
Walking into therapy is the first step to “Doing the Work”, healing and starting a new chapter isn’t easy, but it leads to a journey that is full of new choices and opportunities. My goal is to create a safe environment and allow clients to be free to express their issues and concerns without judgment. I am passionate about helping others draw from their strengths and natural pain if necessary to allow them to thrive. I want to help clients gain the skills and knowledge to create positive changes and walk in their purpose. I am devoted to helping clients find their balance by drawing from a variety of modalities.
(770) 637-6537 View (770) 637-6537
Photo of Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Holt works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
Holt works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
(678) 974-0056 View (678) 974-0056
Photo of Misoon Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Misoon Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097
I serve specifically areas of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Addiction, Relationship issue, Adjustment, Premarital counseling, Parenting concerns, Family problems, Marital conflict and Biblical counseling.
I provide counseling services in an atmosphere of welcoming all people who are seeking help for emotional and spiritual support. It is voluntary and confidential. I provide a wide range of counseling services for individual, couples, adolescents, and adults. I utilize several therapeutic theories to fit each individual's personal growth, which he or she is striving toward. I mainly exercise CBT & DBT for treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues.
I serve specifically areas of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Addiction, Relationship issue, Adjustment, Premarital counseling, Parenting concerns, Family problems, Marital conflict and Biblical counseling.
I provide counseling services in an atmosphere of welcoming all people who are seeking help for emotional and spiritual support. It is voluntary and confidential. I provide a wide range of counseling services for individual, couples, adolescents, and adults. I utilize several therapeutic theories to fit each individual's personal growth, which he or she is striving toward. I mainly exercise CBT & DBT for treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues.
(678) 379-2872 View (678) 379-2872
Photo of Wayne Hulon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Wayne Hulon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097
My specialty includes Relationship Issues, Divorce and Adjustment , Blended Families, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Pain Management, Bariatrics, Grief and Loss, Alcohol and Substance Abuse, Anger Management, and Domestic Violence.
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
My specialty includes Relationship Issues, Divorce and Adjustment , Blended Families, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Pain Management, Bariatrics, Grief and Loss, Alcohol and Substance Abuse, Anger Management, and Domestic Violence.
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
(770) 927-4536 View (770) 927-4536
Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Duluth, GA
Tara Coppola Croy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
I enjoy assisting people of all ages in overcoming the effects of specialties such as depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Behavior Problems.
The challenges of life in today's society presents the need for behavioral and mental health services like never before. I have twenty-four years of experience in providing outpatient therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in order to assist them in overcoming the effects of these challenges. I utilize a solution-focused approach, because I believe that there is always a solution to every problem! I enjoy helping people understand that they have the ability to effectively cope with their emotions and life situations, which therefore enables them to live their best lives.
I enjoy assisting people of all ages in overcoming the effects of specialties such as depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Behavior Problems.
The challenges of life in today's society presents the need for behavioral and mental health services like never before. I have twenty-four years of experience in providing outpatient therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in order to assist them in overcoming the effects of these challenges. I utilize a solution-focused approach, because I believe that there is always a solution to every problem! I enjoy helping people understand that they have the ability to effectively cope with their emotions and life situations, which therefore enables them to live their best lives.
(678) 853-7669 View (678) 853-7669
Photo of Tanya Zeiliger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Tanya Zeiliger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT, NCC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20+ years of experience in counseling for individuals (children, teenagers and adults), couples, and families. I have worked with diverse ethnic populations providing therapy for variety of psychological symptoms, illnesses and conditions such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, stress management and other issues. As a Counselor, my goal is to fully understand the client’s experience and provide specific interventions to help in overcoming concerning life challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20+ years of experience in counseling for individuals (children, teenagers and adults), couples, and families. I have worked with diverse ethnic populations providing therapy for variety of psychological symptoms, illnesses and conditions such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, stress management and other issues. As a Counselor, my goal is to fully understand the client’s experience and provide specific interventions to help in overcoming concerning life challenges.
(678) 635-9596 View (678) 635-9596
Photo of Kirsten Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Kirsten Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096
I have experience working with a variety of mental health issues including, but not limited to: eating disorders, trauma, self-harm, sports performance, depression, anxiety, and anger management.
Have you noticed your adolescent/ teen’s loss of joy? Have you noticed their routine seeming a bit more daunting? Do you notice your child tends to have a hard time connecting with others, including family? Have you observed a difficulty in managing emotions? Lastly, have you noticed your child/teen having difficulty managing emotions related to food? Society tends to have an opinion of how you should handle these observations. It suggests an ineffective “quick fix” – “Stop crying. Just eat. Pull yourself back together. Stop being sad.” As you might have noticed, it is not that simple. So, how does it become less invasive?
I have experience working with a variety of mental health issues including, but not limited to: eating disorders, trauma, self-harm, sports performance, depression, anxiety, and anger management.
Have you noticed your adolescent/ teen’s loss of joy? Have you noticed their routine seeming a bit more daunting? Do you notice your child tends to have a hard time connecting with others, including family? Have you observed a difficulty in managing emotions? Lastly, have you noticed your child/teen having difficulty managing emotions related to food? Society tends to have an opinion of how you should handle these observations. It suggests an ineffective “quick fix” – “Stop crying. Just eat. Pull yourself back together. Stop being sad.” As you might have noticed, it is not that simple. So, how does it become less invasive?
(470) 335-0587 View (470) 335-0587
Photo of Annai Tavira, Marriage & Family Therapist in Duluth, GA
Annai Tavira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097  (Online Only)
Life is full ups and downs. In my practice I will try and help you find those ups and get back there. I have extensive experience working with women issues, relationship issues, neurodivergence, trauma, family separation, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and parenting. I find it impactful to look at our own system and be in tune with all our parts for optimal balance and inner peace. There are many studies that show that the most effective thing in therapy that determines positive progress is the rapport between you and the therapist. Finding who you connect with is essential, let's see if we could be a good fit.
Life is full ups and downs. In my practice I will try and help you find those ups and get back there. I have extensive experience working with women issues, relationship issues, neurodivergence, trauma, family separation, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and parenting. I find it impactful to look at our own system and be in tune with all our parts for optimal balance and inner peace. There are many studies that show that the most effective thing in therapy that determines positive progress is the rapport between you and the therapist. Finding who you connect with is essential, let's see if we could be a good fit.
(770) 629-9954 View (770) 629-9954
Photo of Siva Lan Chen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Duluth, GA
Siva Lan Chen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Have you battled numerous life challenges as a first-generation immigrant, and find yourself grappling with escalating levels of depression and anxiety? Maybe you are a high functioning corporate executive, struck by a mid-life crisis that has left you feeling lost and questioning your life's purpose. Are you an Asian woman confined within the boundaries of an unsatisfying intimate relationship? Or do you bear profound wounds from past relationships, resulting in feelings of emptiness, suffocation, and depression? If any of these scenarios resonate with you, then you are in the right place.
Have you battled numerous life challenges as a first-generation immigrant, and find yourself grappling with escalating levels of depression and anxiety? Maybe you are a high functioning corporate executive, struck by a mid-life crisis that has left you feeling lost and questioning your life's purpose. Are you an Asian woman confined within the boundaries of an unsatisfying intimate relationship? Or do you bear profound wounds from past relationships, resulting in feelings of emptiness, suffocation, and depression? If any of these scenarios resonate with you, then you are in the right place.
(470) 664-4372 View (470) 664-4372
Photo of Brooke Bourne Lawrence, Counselor in Duluth, GA
Brooke Bourne Lawrence
Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096
My professional mission revolves around equipping individuals and families with valuable coping strategies, addressing attachment issues, and fostering emotional regulation. My clientele encompasses a diverse range, from the resilient young ones aged 7 and above, to teenagers and adults. I've dedicated my expertise to specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, social skills, emotional regulation, and women's issues.
My professional mission revolves around equipping individuals and families with valuable coping strategies, addressing attachment issues, and fostering emotional regulation. My clientele encompasses a diverse range, from the resilient young ones aged 7 and above, to teenagers and adults. I've dedicated my expertise to specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, social skills, emotional regulation, and women's issues.
(470) 410-3162 View (470) 410-3162
Photo of Jeremiah Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Jeremiah Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097
Are you a woman who is feeling anxious, depressed, hopeless, fearful, struggling with relationships or difficulties setting boundaries? Unhealed distressing life events in your past and/or present as well as major life changes can be why you are experiencing these symptoms. You might feel stuck but know that there is hope! We wholeheartedly believe it is a sign of true strength and courage to take this first step toward your healing journey. We consider it an honor to be an empathetic, non-judgmental presence in a situation where you can be at your most vulnerable and thank you for allowing us to walk with you in this journey.
Are you a woman who is feeling anxious, depressed, hopeless, fearful, struggling with relationships or difficulties setting boundaries? Unhealed distressing life events in your past and/or present as well as major life changes can be why you are experiencing these symptoms. You might feel stuck but know that there is hope! We wholeheartedly believe it is a sign of true strength and courage to take this first step toward your healing journey. We consider it an honor to be an empathetic, non-judgmental presence in a situation where you can be at your most vulnerable and thank you for allowing us to walk with you in this journey.
(678) 892-8959 View (678) 892-8959
Photo of Gerry Ken Crete, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Gerry Ken Crete
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30097
Waitlist for new clients
I help couples work through marital conflicts and help them achieve a relationship based on trust, security, mutual empathy and deeper levels of connection. I also work with individuals struggling with histories of trauma such as sexual, physical or emotional abuse. In addition, I help men who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, anxieties, depression, and/or obsessive thoughts. I encourage clients to explore their past in order to identify patterns that are affecting their current relationships and personal goals. I provide a safe place to share personal struggles and work toward change. Upon request, I provide a Christian approach.
I help couples work through marital conflicts and help them achieve a relationship based on trust, security, mutual empathy and deeper levels of connection. I also work with individuals struggling with histories of trauma such as sexual, physical or emotional abuse. In addition, I help men who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, anxieties, depression, and/or obsessive thoughts. I encourage clients to explore their past in order to identify patterns that are affecting their current relationships and personal goals. I provide a safe place to share personal struggles and work toward change. Upon request, I provide a Christian approach.
(678) 871-8099 View (678) 871-8099
Photo of Kemesha Nickelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Kemesha Nickelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in the mud of your daily life? Do you need someone to help you navigate the obstacles and find a path towards a brighter future? Whether you're a hardworking adult juggling too many responsibilities or a teen struggling to overcome life's challenges, I'm here to offer a safe and supportive space where you can feel seen and heard.
Are you feeling stuck in the mud of your daily life? Do you need someone to help you navigate the obstacles and find a path towards a brighter future? Whether you're a hardworking adult juggling too many responsibilities or a teen struggling to overcome life's challenges, I'm here to offer a safe and supportive space where you can feel seen and heard.
(470) 397-1419 View (470) 397-1419
Photo of Elly Yooil Chung, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Duluth, GA
Elly Yooil Chung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30026
I am a licensed Clinical social worker(LCSW) with specialized training in mental health. I have various experiences as a clinician working with people with serious mental illness(SMI) to Co-occurring disorders. I also have experience with people with mood disorders and personality disorders. My clinical and research interests are 1) how culture plays a role in one’s life, 2) how to reconstruct relationships through reconstructing one’s unresolved trauma, and 3) strengthen one’s resilience to cope with life difficulties.
I am a licensed Clinical social worker(LCSW) with specialized training in mental health. I have various experiences as a clinician working with people with serious mental illness(SMI) to Co-occurring disorders. I also have experience with people with mood disorders and personality disorders. My clinical and research interests are 1) how culture plays a role in one’s life, 2) how to reconstruct relationships through reconstructing one’s unresolved trauma, and 3) strengthen one’s resilience to cope with life difficulties.
(470) 410-6107 View (470) 410-6107
Photo of Lisa Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Duluth, GA
Lisa Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Lisa Kelley is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience helping families in the Duluth/Johns Creek/Suwanee communities. Since completing her graduate degree, she has worked with a variety of clients in many different settings including inpatient, residential, outpatient, and home-based care. These varied work experiences have given her the opportunity to become proficient in completing biopsychosocial assessments, a variety of therapeutic interventions, parenting skills education, and community resource referrals.
Lisa Kelley is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience helping families in the Duluth/Johns Creek/Suwanee communities. Since completing her graduate degree, she has worked with a variety of clients in many different settings including inpatient, residential, outpatient, and home-based care. These varied work experiences have given her the opportunity to become proficient in completing biopsychosocial assessments, a variety of therapeutic interventions, parenting skills education, and community resource referrals.
(678) 846-3627 View (678) 846-3627
Photo of Elizabeth Curlee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Elizabeth Curlee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096
I am very passionate about the power of the therapeutic relationship and believe in meeting clients exactly where they are. I would be honored to help you on your journey to growth and healing! I work with individuals 18 and up with a variety of issues including trauma (religious, sexual, and relational), perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, boundaries, anxiety, and many more. I welcome people of all faiths and and cultural backgrounds, and I am happy to incorporate your faith and culture as much or as little as you desire during session.
I am very passionate about the power of the therapeutic relationship and believe in meeting clients exactly where they are. I would be honored to help you on your journey to growth and healing! I work with individuals 18 and up with a variety of issues including trauma (religious, sexual, and relational), perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, boundaries, anxiety, and many more. I welcome people of all faiths and and cultural backgrounds, and I am happy to incorporate your faith and culture as much or as little as you desire during session.
(404) 620-5432 View (404) 620-5432
Photo of Rene Ely, LMFT, Total Life Care Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Duluth, GA
Rene Ely, LMFT, Total Life Care Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
You're a visionary entrepreneur - an inspired artist - a dedicated scientist - committed in leadership. You've had success in your career AND YET when it comes to key relationships, you're stuck in repetitive patterns of disturbance and conflict. You've tried everything from confrontation to avoidance and nothing changes. You feel anxious, depleted and ready to fight. Just thinking about the relationships involved, at home and work causes you stress. What would it be like to break out of that? What would a new and enduring sense of freedom, even radical freedom, be worth to you? Let's explore and find out together.
You're a visionary entrepreneur - an inspired artist - a dedicated scientist - committed in leadership. You've had success in your career AND YET when it comes to key relationships, you're stuck in repetitive patterns of disturbance and conflict. You've tried everything from confrontation to avoidance and nothing changes. You feel anxious, depleted and ready to fight. Just thinking about the relationships involved, at home and work causes you stress. What would it be like to break out of that? What would a new and enduring sense of freedom, even radical freedom, be worth to you? Let's explore and find out together.
(678) 590-2966 View (678) 590-2966
Photo of Elizabeth M. Cooke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Elizabeth M. Cooke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097
Life isn't always easy, but getting the help you need can be... You might be facing problems in your relationship, or having trouble dealing with your children's behaviors and attitudes. You could be feeling overwhelmed by stress and change. Or struggling with confusion about directions to take and decisions to make. Whatever brings you here, entering into the counseling process will allow you first to identify and then to build on your strengths. Even if it seems that your resources are few, we will explore and experiment with different skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Life isn't always easy, but getting the help you need can be... You might be facing problems in your relationship, or having trouble dealing with your children's behaviors and attitudes. You could be feeling overwhelmed by stress and change. Or struggling with confusion about directions to take and decisions to make. Whatever brings you here, entering into the counseling process will allow you first to identify and then to build on your strengths. Even if it seems that your resources are few, we will explore and experiment with different skills in a safe and supportive environment.
(678) 535-3190 View (678) 535-3190
Photo of Janae Combs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Duluth, GA
Janae Combs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals, families and teens (ages 13 and up), with a specialty in working with Couples. I have 15 years of experience in the counseling field. I use a growth-oriented approach in helping my clients create positive life changes. These changes will inevitably enhance and build on their existing strengths, insights, and skills while they cultivate new ones. I truly believe that most people instinctively know what is best for them and their situation. However, we sometimes do not follow our instincts for a variety of reasons including situational circumstances, unhealthy relationships, and low self-esteem.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals, families and teens (ages 13 and up), with a specialty in working with Couples. I have 15 years of experience in the counseling field. I use a growth-oriented approach in helping my clients create positive life changes. These changes will inevitably enhance and build on their existing strengths, insights, and skills while they cultivate new ones. I truly believe that most people instinctively know what is best for them and their situation. However, we sometimes do not follow our instincts for a variety of reasons including situational circumstances, unhealthy relationships, and low self-esteem.
(678) 321-7946 View (678) 321-7946
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.