Photo of Liza Sanderson, Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Liza Sanderson
Counselor, PsyD, CMHC, NCSP, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Blue Ridge, GA 30513  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the connection that derives our humanity. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, tailoring interventions to meet these needs, and challenging individuals to make changes that ultimately lead to the development of a life in which they feel they can thrive.
As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the connection that derives our humanity. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, tailoring interventions to meet these needs, and challenging individuals to make changes that ultimately lead to the development of a life in which they feel they can thrive.
(801) 666-2524 View (801) 666-2524

Online Therapists

Photo of Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, GA
Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
(404) 495-5897 x100 View (404) 495-5897 x100
Photo of Alpharetta Psychological Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Alpharetta Psychological Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
I am graduate of West Georgia with a Bachelors of Psychology and received my Master of Professional Counseling from Argosy University. I have been in private practice since 2009 and have extensive counseling experience with individuals and families, specializing in depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and substance abuse. In my work with clients, I provide a non-judgmental, protected space that allows you to process your thoughts and emotions.
I am graduate of West Georgia with a Bachelors of Psychology and received my Master of Professional Counseling from Argosy University. I have been in private practice since 2009 and have extensive counseling experience with individuals and families, specializing in depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and substance abuse. In my work with clients, I provide a non-judgmental, protected space that allows you to process your thoughts and emotions.
(678) 944-8937 View (678) 944-8937
Photo of Rev. Dr. Tynisha Camae Drennon, Pastoral Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Rev. Dr. Tynisha Camae Drennon
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, MDiv, MACE
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30061
We provide counseling for adult individuals in the following treatment areas: Burnout, Anger Management, Depression; Life Coaching, Career Coaching, Grief; and Goal Management.
You have found the person you can trust with your issues! At A Brighter Day Counseling we thrive on the following four core principles: 1: We Care: We provide a non judgmental and safe environment to discover and express what you are feeling. 2: We Affirm: We empathize with your perspective and help you to feel heard then healed. 3: We Hope: We inspire you to believe that there is a brighter day. 4: We Empower: We equip you with tools that support you on your journey to a brighter day!
We provide counseling for adult individuals in the following treatment areas: Burnout, Anger Management, Depression; Life Coaching, Career Coaching, Grief; and Goal Management.
You have found the person you can trust with your issues! At A Brighter Day Counseling we thrive on the following four core principles: 1: We Care: We provide a non judgmental and safe environment to discover and express what you are feeling. 2: We Affirm: We empathize with your perspective and help you to feel heard then healed. 3: We Hope: We inspire you to believe that there is a brighter day. 4: We Empower: We equip you with tools that support you on your journey to a brighter day!
(678) 824-7054 View (678) 824-7054
Photo of Kiara Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, GA
Kiara Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. In this day and time Mental Health is something that is not only overlooked but often misunderstood.  I strive to provide needed support for my clients no matter what life challenges they may be facing. I work with them to pilot through these challenges of life, whether they are personal, with family, or with peers.  My ideal clients are millennials who find themselves facing challenges navigating through the transition to adulthood. In many cases, this transition can cause stress, anxiety, depression and self-esteem issues.
I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. In this day and time Mental Health is something that is not only overlooked but often misunderstood.  I strive to provide needed support for my clients no matter what life challenges they may be facing. I work with them to pilot through these challenges of life, whether they are personal, with family, or with peers.  My ideal clients are millennials who find themselves facing challenges navigating through the transition to adulthood. In many cases, this transition can cause stress, anxiety, depression and self-esteem issues.
(404) 531-2064 View (404) 531-2064
Photo of Lydia Minear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Lydia Minear
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I have extensive work in helping adults explore issues of self-esteem, depression, anxiety, codependency, dating, couples' issues, parenting and managing college/career stress.
My counseling style can be described as warm, empathetic, and accepting. Perhaps you come to therapy with a specific concern and goal in mind or maybe you are seeking counseling due to a general feeling of being stuck and unsatisfied. Whatever issue prompts you to seek help, therapy can provide an intentional place to pause, process emotions, and find clarity about what you need. I have a special passion for working with adults experiencing stress and anxiety and those prone to perfectionism and people-pleasing. Often in my work with clients, we explore the need to honor one's sense of self and establish healthy boundaries.
I have extensive work in helping adults explore issues of self-esteem, depression, anxiety, codependency, dating, couples' issues, parenting and managing college/career stress.
My counseling style can be described as warm, empathetic, and accepting. Perhaps you come to therapy with a specific concern and goal in mind or maybe you are seeking counseling due to a general feeling of being stuck and unsatisfied. Whatever issue prompts you to seek help, therapy can provide an intentional place to pause, process emotions, and find clarity about what you need. I have a special passion for working with adults experiencing stress and anxiety and those prone to perfectionism and people-pleasing. Often in my work with clients, we explore the need to honor one's sense of self and establish healthy boundaries.
(470) 798-2920 View (470) 798-2920
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/family challenges, grief and loss, and new life transitions.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/family challenges, grief and loss, and new life transitions.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
(470) 468-2837 View (470) 468-2837
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, GA
Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, II
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30071  (Online Only)
Providing multicultural mental health and addiction treatment. Especializing in trauma, anxiety and depression. Bilingual (Spanish/English).
Providing multicultural mental health and addiction treatment. Especializing in trauma, anxiety and depression. Bilingual (Spanish/English).
(404) 724-5855 View (404) 724-5855
Photo of Trinity Care Counseling Corporation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Trinity Care Counseling Corporation
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009  (Online Only)
I want to help you work through your challenges and find solutions to enable you to be your best self! I have worked with various populations and my clients find me easy to work with. I can help you with Pre Marital, Marital, Academic/Career, Relationships, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss.
I want to help you work through your challenges and find solutions to enable you to be your best self! I have worked with various populations and my clients find me easy to work with. I can help you with Pre Marital, Marital, Academic/Career, Relationships, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss.
(404) 205-8679 View (404) 205-8679
Photo of Zulaikha Straight, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Zulaikha Straight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NCIAC, NCLF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Does the pain of past trauma impact your daily life? You may give too much and struggle to set healthy boundaries with romantic partners, family, and friends, leading to exhaustion and burnout. You may feel overwhelmed by your ever-growing to-do list. I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression & ADHD, develop healthy relationships that fulfill their deepest needs, and create a career where they truly thrive. You’ll start feeling more confident, productive, and empowered as you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and choices, leading to greater joy and freedom.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Does the pain of past trauma impact your daily life? You may give too much and struggle to set healthy boundaries with romantic partners, family, and friends, leading to exhaustion and burnout. You may feel overwhelmed by your ever-growing to-do list. I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression & ADHD, develop healthy relationships that fulfill their deepest needs, and create a career where they truly thrive. You’ll start feeling more confident, productive, and empowered as you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and choices, leading to greater joy and freedom.
(404) 905-3606 View (404) 905-3606
Photo of Shelley Deady, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fannin County, GA
Shelley Deady
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075
I am a therapist that honors the unique experience of the individual, within the larger context of relationship, community and society. I believe in the power to heal and grow, and the existence inner wisdom. My goal is to create an environment of safety, creativity & compassion, where the inner world of the client is empathetically received. Creating more meaningful connection to self and other is at the heart of therapeutic healing. I am here to help with trauma, relational difficulties, or issues of PTSD, C-PTSD, relational trauma, anxiety/depression, addiction/partners/family system, or personality disorders.
I am a therapist that honors the unique experience of the individual, within the larger context of relationship, community and society. I believe in the power to heal and grow, and the existence inner wisdom. My goal is to create an environment of safety, creativity & compassion, where the inner world of the client is empathetically received. Creating more meaningful connection to self and other is at the heart of therapeutic healing. I am here to help with trauma, relational difficulties, or issues of PTSD, C-PTSD, relational trauma, anxiety/depression, addiction/partners/family system, or personality disorders.
(678) 403-0428 View (678) 403-0428
Photo of Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, 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 Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, GA
Tara Coppola Croy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30092
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 Catherine Egenes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fannin County, GA
Catherine Egenes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship issues, grief, and spiritual trauma.
As a therapist, one of the first and most important messages I hope to communicate about my professional work is that I feel honored each and every time I have the privilege to sit with clients in their pursuit towards growth. My work is grounded in the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives, and my role is to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship to help facilitate change and empower them to live fully.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship issues, grief, and spiritual trauma.
As a therapist, one of the first and most important messages I hope to communicate about my professional work is that I feel honored each and every time I have the privilege to sit with clients in their pursuit towards growth. My work is grounded in the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives, and my role is to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship to help facilitate change and empower them to live fully.
(770) 545-6931 View (770) 545-6931
Photo of Samantha Anne Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fannin County, GA
Samantha Anne Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
Hey, warm welcome and extremely proud of you for looking into therapy. While the search for a therapist that meets your needs can sometimes be daunting, I’m excited you’re considering me to support you through your journey! As a therapist intern, I strive to create an environment of safe space where you can discover how you came to this place in your life, and harness that new understanding of your foundations in order to move forward and cope with - even shape - the world around you as you live. This is the path whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, life adjustments, trauma, sexual issues, or any other symptoms.
Hey, warm welcome and extremely proud of you for looking into therapy. While the search for a therapist that meets your needs can sometimes be daunting, I’m excited you’re considering me to support you through your journey! As a therapist intern, I strive to create an environment of safe space where you can discover how you came to this place in your life, and harness that new understanding of your foundations in order to move forward and cope with - even shape - the world around you as you live. This is the path whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, life adjustments, trauma, sexual issues, or any other symptoms.
(678) 688-4051 View (678) 688-4051
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Mary Elizabeth Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30040
If you struggled with depression, anxiety, gender identity, eating disorders or trauma before, the pandemic exacerbated what was already there.
Now taking new clients! I believe in taking a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy. Each person's experiences and challenges are unique, and I tailor treatment plans to meet the specific needs of clients. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Somatic therapy, and Breathwork, I help clients develop coping strategies, gain insight into their thoughts and emotions, and make positive changes in their lives. I specialized in ages 12 and up with Eating disorders, PTDS, Trauma, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression and Narcissistic abuse recovery.
If you struggled with depression, anxiety, gender identity, eating disorders or trauma before, the pandemic exacerbated what was already there.
Now taking new clients! I believe in taking a holistic and person-centered approach to therapy. Each person's experiences and challenges are unique, and I tailor treatment plans to meet the specific needs of clients. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Somatic therapy, and Breathwork, I help clients develop coping strategies, gain insight into their thoughts and emotions, and make positive changes in their lives. I specialized in ages 12 and up with Eating disorders, PTDS, Trauma, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression and Narcissistic abuse recovery.
(404) 977-5968 View (404) 977-5968
Photo of Stacey O'Neil Kitchens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Stacey O'Neil Kitchens
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, AMS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Covington, GA 30014
I see clients who seek counseling for a broad range of reasons, including: *Relationship and family issues, pre-marital counseling, marital conflicts, intimacy and attachment issues, sexual issues, addiction and codependency concerns, infidelity, divorce recovery, blended families, communication skills, adolescent development, academic problems, family relationships, parenting skills and training. *Growth Counseling: grief and loss, career transitions, interviewing skills, employment issues, professional development, life transitions *Health and Wellness: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress issues, weight issues, eating disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, alcohol and substance abuse recovery, adult children of alcoholic (ACoA) issues
I see clients who seek counseling for a broad range of reasons, including: *Relationship and family issues, pre-marital counseling, marital conflicts, intimacy and attachment issues, sexual issues, addiction and codependency concerns, infidelity, divorce recovery, blended families, communication skills, adolescent development, academic problems, family relationships, parenting skills and training. *Growth Counseling: grief and loss, career transitions, interviewing skills, employment issues, professional development, life transitions *Health and Wellness: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress issues, weight issues, eating disorders, trauma and abuse recovery, alcohol and substance abuse recovery, adult children of alcoholic (ACoA) issues
(404) 566-9417 View (404) 566-9417
Photo of Linda J Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Linda J Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
I believe our relationships provide the most important, and often the most difficult, ways to learn about ourselves and others. Healing damaged relationships and developing intimacy requires honesty, self-esteem, trust and hard work. As we age, life transitions like career changes, divorce after 50 and planning for retirement bring new opportunities and anxieties. Get the support and encouragement you need to confront the root causes of the behaviors that trigger anxiety, depression, fear and addiction. Together we will develop a plan that is clear, focused and achievable - so that you can become the person you truly want to be.
I believe our relationships provide the most important, and often the most difficult, ways to learn about ourselves and others. Healing damaged relationships and developing intimacy requires honesty, self-esteem, trust and hard work. As we age, life transitions like career changes, divorce after 50 and planning for retirement bring new opportunities and anxieties. Get the support and encouragement you need to confront the root causes of the behaviors that trigger anxiety, depression, fear and addiction. Together we will develop a plan that is clear, focused and achievable - so that you can become the person you truly want to be.
(678) 506-7043 View (678) 506-7043
Photo of Deborah Silver, Pastoral Counselor in Fannin County, GA
Deborah Silver
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, Fellow, AAPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Many of my clients face life transitions, traumas, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, and spiritual crises, or the pain of a troubled relationship.
As an Episcopal priest with a Doctor of Ministry degree in pastoral counseling, I have been in practice since 1985. I am a clinical Fellow in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, extensively trained and experienced in individual depth psychotherapy and in working with couples, families and groups. My particular gift is in establishing a a therapeutic space where individual men and women, as well as adolescents and young adults, who are in pain or under stress, can feel safe and understood. Regardless of our faith, I believe we are all on a journey of healing and growth.
Many of my clients face life transitions, traumas, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, and spiritual crises, or the pain of a troubled relationship.
As an Episcopal priest with a Doctor of Ministry degree in pastoral counseling, I have been in practice since 1985. I am a clinical Fellow in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, extensively trained and experienced in individual depth psychotherapy and in working with couples, families and groups. My particular gift is in establishing a a therapeutic space where individual men and women, as well as adolescents and young adults, who are in pain or under stress, can feel safe and understood. Regardless of our faith, I believe we are all on a journey of healing and growth.
(404) 271-2253 View (404) 271-2253
Photo of Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fannin County, GA
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30346
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
(678) 824-2031 View (678) 824-2031

See more therapy options for Fannin County

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.