Photo of Cynthia Eckert-McCoy Lscsw Llc, LSCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Eckert-McCoy Lscsw Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401
I have many years of experience working with a variety of presenting problems we humans experience. Working from a family systems relationship approach and EMDR Therapy has been useful to people with the following symptom areas: depression; anxiety and PTSD; adult and childhood adversity or trauma, including, but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marital violence or military trauma; marital conflict; marital dissatisfaction; parents of children with problems; addictions, compulsive behavior or habits, including alcohol, cigarettes, procrastination, affairs, and the list goes on; workplace problems. Please feel free to call or email me with questions. Cyndy Eckert-McCoy, LSCSW PS:
I have many years of experience working with a variety of presenting problems we humans experience. Working from a family systems relationship approach and EMDR Therapy has been useful to people with the following symptom areas: depression; anxiety and PTSD; adult and childhood adversity or trauma, including, but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marital violence or military trauma; marital conflict; marital dissatisfaction; parents of children with problems; addictions, compulsive behavior or habits, including alcohol, cigarettes, procrastination, affairs, and the list goes on; workplace problems. Please feel free to call or email me with questions. Cyndy Eckert-McCoy, LSCSW PS:
(785) 566-4723 View (785) 566-4723
Photo of Sue Ann Osterhout-Montgomery, PhD, LCMF, LCAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sue Ann Osterhout-Montgomery
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMF, LCAC
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67402
My specialties include working with clients who have relationship issues, parenting, drug addiction, child custody, as well as testing, evaluations, and treatment for depression, sleep disorders, anxiety, and much more.
Hi! I am a professional who likes to listen. Therapy for Healthy Living has been established here in Hutchinson, Kansas for over 18 years working with people from many ages, cultures, and perspectives. As both a licensed clinical family therapist and a licensed clinical addiction counselor, I have been lucky to have met some very fascinating and interesting people along the way. I am a systems therapist which simply put means that I am interested in the total you - your background, your family, your current situation, and your hopes for the future.
My specialties include working with clients who have relationship issues, parenting, drug addiction, child custody, as well as testing, evaluations, and treatment for depression, sleep disorders, anxiety, and much more.
Hi! I am a professional who likes to listen. Therapy for Healthy Living has been established here in Hutchinson, Kansas for over 18 years working with people from many ages, cultures, and perspectives. As both a licensed clinical family therapist and a licensed clinical addiction counselor, I have been lucky to have met some very fascinating and interesting people along the way. I am a systems therapist which simply put means that I am interested in the total you - your background, your family, your current situation, and your hopes for the future.
(620) 628-0941 View (620) 628-0941
Photo of Sherry J Descoteaux, LSCSW, LMAC, FFT, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry J Descoteaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMAC, FFT, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salina, KS 67401  (Online Only)
My philosophy in working with individual, couples and families is to provide a safe environment that enable individuals feel free to express their emotions, feelings and work at solutions, conflicts stress and life changes. I work from a strengths perspective and family systems theory. I have experience with ages 10 to 90. Some of my areas of expertise are Grief and Loss, Sexual Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD, Sexual, Emotional and Physical abuse. Drug and Alcohol Assessments, SASSI, ASI, KCPC, Individual and Group Therapy for Addictions.
My philosophy in working with individual, couples and families is to provide a safe environment that enable individuals feel free to express their emotions, feelings and work at solutions, conflicts stress and life changes. I work from a strengths perspective and family systems theory. I have experience with ages 10 to 90. Some of my areas of expertise are Grief and Loss, Sexual Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD, Sexual, Emotional and Physical abuse. Drug and Alcohol Assessments, SASSI, ASI, KCPC, Individual and Group Therapy for Addictions.
(602) 550-7246 View (602) 550-7246
Photo of Katie Herwig, LSCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Herwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401
"I became a psychotherapist because that's where people will unburden themselves, where they will show what is in their hearts." I have had the opportunity to meet individuals from all different walks of life, and bear witness to their own personal life stories.
"I became a psychotherapist because that's where people will unburden themselves, where they will show what is in their hearts." I have had the opportunity to meet individuals from all different walks of life, and bear witness to their own personal life stories.
(316) 745-2881 View (316) 745-2881
Photo of Ashley Freeman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salina, KS 67401
Let's make some goals together and work on moving past the things that have you stuck where you are. I have a background in trauma, addiction, neurodivergence, and work with children and adults that can help me help you in whatever stage you are at in life. I want to learn about what is important to you and help you find your superpowers in the things others think are weaknesses. I believe everyone is valuable, everyone is worthy, and everyone is important. As your counselor I promise to not judge you, but instead support you in what you are needing.
Let's make some goals together and work on moving past the things that have you stuck where you are. I have a background in trauma, addiction, neurodivergence, and work with children and adults that can help me help you in whatever stage you are at in life. I want to learn about what is important to you and help you find your superpowers in the things others think are weaknesses. I believe everyone is valuable, everyone is worthy, and everyone is important. As your counselor I promise to not judge you, but instead support you in what you are needing.
(785) 645-2105 View (785) 645-2105
Photo of Tessa Gutierrez - New Leaf Counseling LLC, LSCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Leaf Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401
My passion is to support individuals as they seek help to unravel their current mental health symptoms and environmental circumstances. I have worked in the mental health and addictions field, addressing the symptoms of addiction as well as working to manage the mental health symptoms. I work to help the individual find a starting point and continually make steps forward to achieve their goals. Life is difficult, messy, and hard. We all need a support system to help us find who we are meant to be.
My passion is to support individuals as they seek help to unravel their current mental health symptoms and environmental circumstances. I have worked in the mental health and addictions field, addressing the symptoms of addiction as well as working to manage the mental health symptoms. I work to help the individual find a starting point and continually make steps forward to achieve their goals. Life is difficult, messy, and hard. We all need a support system to help us find who we are meant to be.
(785) 429-4364 View (785) 429-4364
Photo of Anecea Dawn Stambaugh-Groth, LCMFT, LCAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anecea Dawn Stambaugh-Groth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LCAC
Verified Verified
Salina, KS 67401
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that we each have the power to create lasting changes in our life. It is my belief that we can often learn a great deal from our hardships and go on to live richer and fuller lives because of our experiences. Through my experience as a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor I have been amazed by the strength, perseverance and resilience of my clients. I am here to offer support and understanding, as well as to help you recognize your own unique strengths.
I believe that we each have the power to create lasting changes in our life. It is my belief that we can often learn a great deal from our hardships and go on to live richer and fuller lives because of our experiences. Through my experience as a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor I have been amazed by the strength, perseverance and resilience of my clients. I am here to offer support and understanding, as well as to help you recognize your own unique strengths.
(785) 871-4796 View (785) 871-4796
Photo of Cathie Bear, LMAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Cathie Bear
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salina, KS 67401
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
(785) 264-5878 View (785) 264-5878

Online Therapists

Photo of Liz Herl - Liz Herl, LCMFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Herl, LCMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67220
Waitlist for new clients
In accepting clients I assist those struggling with depression, grief, marital problems, substance abuse, anxiety, and child-parent problems, as well as a variety of other concerns.
Life can be hectic and at times a bit overwhelming and sometimes we all need a safe place to vent. As a marriage and family therapist I do my best to offer my clients such a space, where they can discover tools and techniques to address challenges.
In accepting clients I assist those struggling with depression, grief, marital problems, substance abuse, anxiety, and child-parent problems, as well as a variety of other concerns.
Life can be hectic and at times a bit overwhelming and sometimes we all need a safe place to vent. As a marriage and family therapist I do my best to offer my clients such a space, where they can discover tools and techniques to address challenges.
(785) 734-4361 View (785) 734-4361
Photo of Sidney Funk, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sidney Funk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67203
My practice has dealt with treating anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, eating issues, and perinatal mood disorders.
I have 11+ years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and family systems. My treatment approach is based on the belief that most people desire to make improvements in their lives and overcome hurdles that keep them stuck. I tend to see the best in people, focusing on their strengths, and assisting them in pulling out and expanding their own internal resources and abilities. I desire to help people heal from trauma, find freedom from symptoms, build their confidence, increase their abilities, and find joy in living each and every day.
My practice has dealt with treating anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, eating issues, and perinatal mood disorders.
I have 11+ years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and family systems. My treatment approach is based on the belief that most people desire to make improvements in their lives and overcome hurdles that keep them stuck. I tend to see the best in people, focusing on their strengths, and assisting them in pulling out and expanding their own internal resources and abilities. I desire to help people heal from trauma, find freedom from symptoms, build their confidence, increase their abilities, and find joy in living each and every day.
(316) 333-7199 View (316) 333-7199
Photo of Barbara Drewry, LMSW
Barbara Drewry
LMSW
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67212
Pious platitudes and cheery 'encouragement' when we are feeling sad, anxious, depressed, or lonely are often not helpful and can be hurtful, leaving us feeling more isolated rather than less.
I have been a Licensed Master Social Worker for more than 16 years. I have worked with teen boys at Judge Riddell Boys’ Ranch, teen girls at King’s Treatment, adult females at Miracles House, hospice patients, the homeless, and with members of the military and their families on 12 bases in 10 states as a Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC). I received my BA in social work from Wichita State University and my Master of Social Work from Newman University. I use a variety of modalities and interventions, including Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Narrative Therapy. My hope is for clients to feel safe and comfortable with me.
Pious platitudes and cheery 'encouragement' when we are feeling sad, anxious, depressed, or lonely are often not helpful and can be hurtful, leaving us feeling more isolated rather than less.
I have been a Licensed Master Social Worker for more than 16 years. I have worked with teen boys at Judge Riddell Boys’ Ranch, teen girls at King’s Treatment, adult females at Miracles House, hospice patients, the homeless, and with members of the military and their families on 12 bases in 10 states as a Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC). I received my BA in social work from Wichita State University and my Master of Social Work from Newman University. I use a variety of modalities and interventions, including Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Narrative Therapy. My hope is for clients to feel safe and comfortable with me.
(316) 888-8026 View (316) 888-8026
Photo of Nannette Myers - Heaven Sent Counseling, MS, CDP, LMHC, Counselor
Heaven Sent Counseling
Counselor, MS, CDP, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smith Center, KS 66967
My specialties are working with couples, families, and individuals that are struggling with communication issues, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, anger, domestic violence, victim's of domestic violence, and co-dependency issues.
I have been a counselor for almost 19 years. I have worked in the addiction field and with couples and families helping them to resolve issues between couples and family members. I also have worked with people who have co-dependency issues, anxiety issues, post traumatic stress disorder, and depression. I am moved into my own private practice in June 2015. I am currently a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Chemical Dependency Proffessional, in Washington State and now am licensed in Kansas and have moved my practice to Kansas, but can continue to work with people in Washington State online.
My specialties are working with couples, families, and individuals that are struggling with communication issues, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, anger, domestic violence, victim's of domestic violence, and co-dependency issues.
I have been a counselor for almost 19 years. I have worked in the addiction field and with couples and families helping them to resolve issues between couples and family members. I also have worked with people who have co-dependency issues, anxiety issues, post traumatic stress disorder, and depression. I am moved into my own private practice in June 2015. I am currently a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Chemical Dependency Proffessional, in Washington State and now am licensed in Kansas and have moved my practice to Kansas, but can continue to work with people in Washington State online.
(785) 384-4896 View (785) 384-4896
Photo of Jean Anderson, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67226
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing since 1990's. Ages 10 yrs old to elderly. I provide Psychotherapy in person or through Telehealth to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, stress management, grief loss, pre-marital and marital counseling, recovery from abusive relationships. Navigating the dating world at all ages and safely choosing healthy partners, adjustments to life changes in aging, employment, divorce and other issues. I have a wide range of educational and life experience in multiple therapeutic settings which allows me to offer the best care for my clients.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing since 1990's. Ages 10 yrs old to elderly. I provide Psychotherapy in person or through Telehealth to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, stress management, grief loss, pre-marital and marital counseling, recovery from abusive relationships. Navigating the dating world at all ages and safely choosing healthy partners, adjustments to life changes in aging, employment, divorce and other issues. I have a wide range of educational and life experience in multiple therapeutic settings which allows me to offer the best care for my clients.
(316) 800-1872 View (316) 800-1872
Photo of Tychelle Schi'erre Jones, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tychelle Schi'erre Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Manhattan, KS 66502  (Online Only)
My background includes working with those experiencing racial issues, grief, depression, family conflict, women issues, self-esteem issues, obesity, coping skills, codependency, and a variety of other areas.
“I believe everyone deserves a chance; a chance at happiness, a chance at love, a chance at life, any CHANCE! I find extreme purpose as I assist individuals to find what satisfies them as well as presented barriers, restrictions, and issues faced in their journey. I strive to support them in finding peace and finding their own purpose.” My personal choices have lead me towards a career of advocacy and service on behalf of the abused, neglected and traumatized due to family violence and sexual assault. “Whatever issue you may be facing, you do not have to do so alone. Allow me to join you on the journey to find the Greater in YOU!”
My background includes working with those experiencing racial issues, grief, depression, family conflict, women issues, self-esteem issues, obesity, coping skills, codependency, and a variety of other areas.
“I believe everyone deserves a chance; a chance at happiness, a chance at love, a chance at life, any CHANCE! I find extreme purpose as I assist individuals to find what satisfies them as well as presented barriers, restrictions, and issues faced in their journey. I strive to support them in finding peace and finding their own purpose.” My personal choices have lead me towards a career of advocacy and service on behalf of the abused, neglected and traumatized due to family violence and sexual assault. “Whatever issue you may be facing, you do not have to do so alone. Allow me to join you on the journey to find the Greater in YOU!”
(785) 264-4094 View (785) 264-4094
Photo of Danielle Roberts, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67212
Hello there! I am so glad you have found me along your journey to achieving your goals or finding more peace and fulfillment in your life. I firmly believe that continual growth as a person is imperative to a full and peaceful life. I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University in 2016. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, families, and children 13+ in achieving their own mental and emotional goals. Some issues I enjoy working with are issues related to, intimacy, postpartum, gender sex therapy, anxiety, depression and Tics/Tourette.
Hello there! I am so glad you have found me along your journey to achieving your goals or finding more peace and fulfillment in your life. I firmly believe that continual growth as a person is imperative to a full and peaceful life. I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University in 2016. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, families, and children 13+ in achieving their own mental and emotional goals. Some issues I enjoy working with are issues related to, intimacy, postpartum, gender sex therapy, anxiety, depression and Tics/Tourette.
(316) 800-1788 View (316) 800-1788
Photo of Kelly Ackerson - Kelly Ackerson Counseling Services LLC, LCPC, LAC
Kelly Ackerson Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Emporia, KS 66801
I enjoy working one-on-one with children and adults, and with families, teaching them to communicate in healthier ways, learn to cope with stressors, and break destructive patterns. I have worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, PTSD, and numerous individuals struggling to adapt to life changes. My goal is to help you meet your goals to find healthy balance in daily life and relationships. I work with survivors of domestic violence, through the local domestic violence support agency. I want to help you work through your traumas to find you again. LGBTQ+ welcome!
I enjoy working one-on-one with children and adults, and with families, teaching them to communicate in healthier ways, learn to cope with stressors, and break destructive patterns. I have worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, oppositional defiant disorder, PTSD, and numerous individuals struggling to adapt to life changes. My goal is to help you meet your goals to find healthy balance in daily life and relationships. I work with survivors of domestic violence, through the local domestic violence support agency. I want to help you work through your traumas to find you again. LGBTQ+ welcome!
(620) 254-9719 View (620) 254-9719
Photo of Brandi M Loudermilk, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandi M Loudermilk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67206  (Online Only)
I have a vast array of experience with client presenting issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, sexual issues, relational conflicts, I/DD and severe and persistent mental illnesses.
Any time is the right and most divine time for change. I believe that as a therapist I have the unique opportunity to step into the lives of my clients. This has allowed me to learn and grow with them while they take the next steps in their personal journey. Overall, my goal as a Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist is to support individuals, couples and families with gaining and strengthening the necessary skills to help them live the life that they desire.
I have a vast array of experience with client presenting issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, sexual issues, relational conflicts, I/DD and severe and persistent mental illnesses.
Any time is the right and most divine time for change. I believe that as a therapist I have the unique opportunity to step into the lives of my clients. This has allowed me to learn and grow with them while they take the next steps in their personal journey. Overall, my goal as a Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist is to support individuals, couples and families with gaining and strengthening the necessary skills to help them live the life that they desire.
(316) 218-9883 View (316) 218-9883
Photo of Ophelia M. Blackwell, PhD, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Ophelia M. Blackwell
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Junction City, KS 66441  (Online Only)
CBT is effective in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse, anger and schizophrenia.
I utilize an integrative approach to therapy. My primary treatment approach is client centered therapy which allow me to follow my clients lead in session. This approach also assists clients with self-actualization and growth. One of the most important primary needs of individuals is to have secure emotional attachments. Therefore, I utilize a systems approach and attachment processes in my work with couples and families. I have a special interest in working with veterans and active duty military couples and families.
CBT is effective in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse, anger and schizophrenia.
I utilize an integrative approach to therapy. My primary treatment approach is client centered therapy which allow me to follow my clients lead in session. This approach also assists clients with self-actualization and growth. One of the most important primary needs of individuals is to have secure emotional attachments. Therefore, I utilize a systems approach and attachment processes in my work with couples and families. I have a special interest in working with veterans and active duty military couples and families.
(785) 527-9430 View (785) 527-9430
Photo of Shelly Huffman - Shelly Huffman, LMHC, LCPC, LLC, MA, LMHC, LCPC, LLC, Counselor
Shelly Huffman, LMHC, LCPC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Newton, KS 67114
I use Somatic Experiencing, effective for depression & anxiety, chronic pain, issues of abuse, trauma, PTSD.
Clients who work with me feel empowered and reassured on their first visit, and they continue with me, because they notice changes happening. For the past 20 years, I've worked in private and group practices, providing counseling and other services to people from many different walks of life. I help people re-evaluate, become closer to a loved one, process difficult decisions or transitions and grieve significant losses. I enjoy helping people become more truthful about themselves and live with integrity. I fiercely protect the privacy and confidentiality of my clients and provide a private, safe setting for our work together.
I use Somatic Experiencing, effective for depression & anxiety, chronic pain, issues of abuse, trauma, PTSD.
Clients who work with me feel empowered and reassured on their first visit, and they continue with me, because they notice changes happening. For the past 20 years, I've worked in private and group practices, providing counseling and other services to people from many different walks of life. I help people re-evaluate, become closer to a loved one, process difficult decisions or transitions and grieve significant losses. I enjoy helping people become more truthful about themselves and live with integrity. I fiercely protect the privacy and confidentiality of my clients and provide a private, safe setting for our work together.
(206) 984-3013 View (206) 984-3013
Photo of Desirae Moreno, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Desirae Moreno
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67207
She has worked with a variety of issues in therapy including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, relationship difficulties, social struggles, and difficulties surrounding foster care or adoption.
Dr. Desirae Moreno earned her degree in clinical psychology from Wichita State University. She has experience working with a wide variety of clients including ages 3 through 65, male and female, various sexual orientations, various races/ethnicities, and various disabilities or impairments. Her extensive experience in a variety of work settings also allows her to understand issues from all angles. Dr. Moreno knows that the commitment to change can be exciting but also very scary. She works with clients to identify where they are in the stages of change and how she can best walk with them on their journey.
She has worked with a variety of issues in therapy including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, relationship difficulties, social struggles, and difficulties surrounding foster care or adoption.
Dr. Desirae Moreno earned her degree in clinical psychology from Wichita State University. She has experience working with a wide variety of clients including ages 3 through 65, male and female, various sexual orientations, various races/ethnicities, and various disabilities or impairments. Her extensive experience in a variety of work settings also allows her to understand issues from all angles. Dr. Moreno knows that the commitment to change can be exciting but also very scary. She works with clients to identify where they are in the stages of change and how she can best walk with them on their journey.
(316) 854-1377 View (316) 854-1377

See more therapy options for Salina

Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Salina

See More Depression Therapists
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.