Depression Therapists in Lapeer, MI

Photo of Daniel J Kachman, Psychologist in Lapeer, MI
Daniel J Kachman
Psychologist, Ed D
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
Hello. I am Dr. Daniel Kachman. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of MI. I have practiced in Lapeer for over 35 years as an outpatient, private practice Psychologist but I am now practicing exclusively through telemedicine. I accept almost all insurances. Throughout my career, I have practiced using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence based approach, that increases awareness of our thinking in order to overcome self-defeating thoughts, emotions (depression, anger and anxiety) and behaviors (social anxiety, addictions, etc.).
Hello. I am Dr. Daniel Kachman. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of MI. I have practiced in Lapeer for over 35 years as an outpatient, private practice Psychologist but I am now practicing exclusively through telemedicine. I accept almost all insurances. Throughout my career, I have practiced using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence based approach, that increases awareness of our thinking in order to overcome self-defeating thoughts, emotions (depression, anger and anxiety) and behaviors (social anxiety, addictions, etc.).
(810) 277-9358 View (810) 277-9358
Photo of Danielle McIlrath, Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Danielle McIlrath
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
I believe that within every person you have the tools to find what you need, but sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. My role as a therapist is to build a safe and nonjudgmental partnership to support you in connecting with your own inner wisdom and capacity for growth, healing, and transformation. I combine your knowledge of your own life with my training and experience to support you as a whole person in the context of your intersecting identities, experiences, and environment. My specialty is working with young adults and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, shame, and grief.
I believe that within every person you have the tools to find what you need, but sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. My role as a therapist is to build a safe and nonjudgmental partnership to support you in connecting with your own inner wisdom and capacity for growth, healing, and transformation. I combine your knowledge of your own life with my training and experience to support you as a whole person in the context of your intersecting identities, experiences, and environment. My specialty is working with young adults and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, shame, and grief.
(810) 206-0175 View (810) 206-0175
Photo of Lapeer Christian Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lapeer, MI
Lapeer Christian Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446
Lapeer Christian Counseling offers services to children, teens and adults of all faiths. We believe that all people should have access to quality mental health care, regardless of income or insurance coverage. We now have 3 locations in Lapeer county: Lapeer, North Branch, and Imlay City. Whether you are a follower of Christ, don't believe at all, or are somewhere in between, our counselors will meet you where you are in your search for freedom from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, school/job stresses, etc. If you prefer not to discuss your spiritual beliefs in counseling, we respect that and will not make it a focus
Lapeer Christian Counseling offers services to children, teens and adults of all faiths. We believe that all people should have access to quality mental health care, regardless of income or insurance coverage. We now have 3 locations in Lapeer county: Lapeer, North Branch, and Imlay City. Whether you are a follower of Christ, don't believe at all, or are somewhere in between, our counselors will meet you where you are in your search for freedom from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, school/job stresses, etc. If you prefer not to discuss your spiritual beliefs in counseling, we respect that and will not make it a focus
(810) 277-9144 View (810) 277-9144
Photo of Andrew Grapentin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Andrew Grapentin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446
As your therapist, my goal is to offer you a dedicated place to navigate life’s challenges and to offer you tools that will help you foster long-term growth and change. Whether those challenges include anxiety, depression, PTSD, LGBTQ or grief, I want to work with you to increase your quality of life.
As your therapist, my goal is to offer you a dedicated place to navigate life’s challenges and to offer you tools that will help you foster long-term growth and change. Whether those challenges include anxiety, depression, PTSD, LGBTQ or grief, I want to work with you to increase your quality of life.
(810) 641-8645 View (810) 641-8645
Photo of Eric Eugene Craig, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Lapeer, MI
Eric Eugene Craig
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, family estrangement, or struggles at a crossroads of life? I am here to give you a safe place for help and healing through individual therapy with me.
One of my professional idols, Irvin Yalom, MD, coined one of my favorite terms, "Fellow Travelers." We are all Fellow Travelers...and at any given time, we are at one crossroads or another in life. I am here to meet you at your crossroads. I provide a collaborative psychotherapy with adults and teens. I have a broad range of experience in working with individuals experiencing Depression, Anxiety, and all sorts of major life adjustment issues. My therapeutic orientation is primarily Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy while incorporating eclectic ideas including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT-Informed, and Neuropsychotherapy.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, family estrangement, or struggles at a crossroads of life? I am here to give you a safe place for help and healing through individual therapy with me.
One of my professional idols, Irvin Yalom, MD, coined one of my favorite terms, "Fellow Travelers." We are all Fellow Travelers...and at any given time, we are at one crossroads or another in life. I am here to meet you at your crossroads. I provide a collaborative psychotherapy with adults and teens. I have a broad range of experience in working with individuals experiencing Depression, Anxiety, and all sorts of major life adjustment issues. My therapeutic orientation is primarily Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy while incorporating eclectic ideas including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, DBT-Informed, and Neuropsychotherapy.
(248) 712-1327 View (248) 712-1327
Photo of Changing Minds Mental Health Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Changing Minds Mental Health Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
I have over a decade of experience working with clients of all ages, races, and ethnicities to assist in decreasing symptoms and the effects of anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, and anger just to name a few.
"The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts." Marcus Aurelius. I believe happiness is a choice, with that said, what is standing in the way of your happiness? Would it be relationship problems? Past trauma? Forgiveness? Finances? Stress from children? There could be endless reasons why happiness appears to be an unattainable goal or just an illusion. Let me help you work through what is preventing you from happiness, and begin experiencing a new way of life, a new you.
I have over a decade of experience working with clients of all ages, races, and ethnicities to assist in decreasing symptoms and the effects of anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, and anger just to name a few.
"The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts." Marcus Aurelius. I believe happiness is a choice, with that said, what is standing in the way of your happiness? Would it be relationship problems? Past trauma? Forgiveness? Finances? Stress from children? There could be endless reasons why happiness appears to be an unattainable goal or just an illusion. Let me help you work through what is preventing you from happiness, and begin experiencing a new way of life, a new you.
(810) 267-2624 View (810) 267-2624
Photo of Liz Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lapeer, MI
Liz Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
I'm a psychotherapist with a passion for helping people change their lives. I'm an author and podcaster. I specialize in anxiety, depression, addiction, menopause, family, women's issues, and weight loss. I myself have been in recovery for over 21 years from alcohol. I help people with the goal of living happy fulfilling lives. I believe that everyone deserves happiness and that laughter is a great healer. I'm spiritual, I practice meditation and exercise daily. I feel animals are beneficial to healing all people. I was in the addiction field for many years specializing in opiate dependency.
I'm a psychotherapist with a passion for helping people change their lives. I'm an author and podcaster. I specialize in anxiety, depression, addiction, menopause, family, women's issues, and weight loss. I myself have been in recovery for over 21 years from alcohol. I help people with the goal of living happy fulfilling lives. I believe that everyone deserves happiness and that laughter is a great healer. I'm spiritual, I practice meditation and exercise daily. I feel animals are beneficial to healing all people. I was in the addiction field for many years specializing in opiate dependency.
(313) 588-0418 View (313) 588-0418
Photo of Human Kindness Trauma Psychotherapy, Masters Social Worker in Lapeer, MI
Human Kindness Trauma Psychotherapy
Masters Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
At Human Kindness we specializes in trauma, PTSD, + C-PTSD. At this time we are completely virtual and are only seeing ages 18+. Whether the trauma is from childhood or more recent, complex or a one time event - all of our therapists on staff understand the difficulty that trauma can bring to our lives & know how to work with the lingering trauma reactions your body may be experiencing. We also work with other issues such as: anxiety, depression, anger, grief, ADHD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, divorce, work stress & burnout. Our mission is to help people be curious and self-compassionate while they heal their trauma.
At Human Kindness we specializes in trauma, PTSD, + C-PTSD. At this time we are completely virtual and are only seeing ages 18+. Whether the trauma is from childhood or more recent, complex or a one time event - all of our therapists on staff understand the difficulty that trauma can bring to our lives & know how to work with the lingering trauma reactions your body may be experiencing. We also work with other issues such as: anxiety, depression, anger, grief, ADHD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, divorce, work stress & burnout. Our mission is to help people be curious and self-compassionate while they heal their trauma.
(248) 927-1745 View (248) 927-1745
Photo of Bainbridge Center For Growth & Development, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Bainbridge Center For Growth & Development
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You may no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as: anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You may no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as: anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
(734) 999-3705 View (734) 999-3705
Photo of Aquila Counseling Center, PLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Aquila Counseling Center, PLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
Are you tired of avoiding things, worrying constantly, and find that you are not enjoying your life as you once may have? I can help you to refocus on the here-and-now to reduce anxiety and depression. Change can be difficult and scary. I strive to create an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. I don’t believe that anyone wants to be in counseling forever. I will help give you or your child the necessary tools and coping skills to work through the things that are creating conflicts.
Are you tired of avoiding things, worrying constantly, and find that you are not enjoying your life as you once may have? I can help you to refocus on the here-and-now to reduce anxiety and depression. Change can be difficult and scary. I strive to create an environment that is safe and non-judgmental. I don’t believe that anyone wants to be in counseling forever. I will help give you or your child the necessary tools and coping skills to work through the things that are creating conflicts.
(810) 652-5108 View (810) 652-5108
Photo of Vernell Webb Jr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lapeer, MI
Vernell Webb Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
Many people have a fear of therapy or feel like it is not for them. Treatment is a tool and resource that can help you navigate tough spots in your life. I also use telehealth to meet with clients who prefer not to be seen in the office during these difficult times. I am a master's Level Clinical Social Worker specializing in the following individuals/conditions: Trauma, Survivors, Couples, Anxiety, Depression, People Living with HIV, Chronic Disease, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders, and LGBTQ+.
Many people have a fear of therapy or feel like it is not for them. Treatment is a tool and resource that can help you navigate tough spots in your life. I also use telehealth to meet with clients who prefer not to be seen in the office during these difficult times. I am a master's Level Clinical Social Worker specializing in the following individuals/conditions: Trauma, Survivors, Couples, Anxiety, Depression, People Living with HIV, Chronic Disease, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders, and LGBTQ+.
(810) 255-8247 View (810) 255-8247
Photo of MM Wolfe, Psychotherapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lapeer, MI
MM Wolfe, Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
Stressed, depressed, overwhelmed? When you feel you have no one to talk with who understands you and really listens, its time to reach out for help. You are unique and so are your problems. When you believe there is no hope, there is. If your coping methods are no longer working and you are sabotaging your health and relationships, its time to learn new ways to cope. You deserve to feel better, think clearer, regain hope, and trust in someone again. You may be tired of weight loss programs that don't work and tired of being overweight but not knowing what to do about it.
Stressed, depressed, overwhelmed? When you feel you have no one to talk with who understands you and really listens, its time to reach out for help. You are unique and so are your problems. When you believe there is no hope, there is. If your coping methods are no longer working and you are sabotaging your health and relationships, its time to learn new ways to cope. You deserve to feel better, think clearer, regain hope, and trust in someone again. You may be tired of weight loss programs that don't work and tired of being overweight but not knowing what to do about it.
(810) 277-9653 View (810) 277-9653
Photo of Karen Smigelski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Karen Smigelski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
), an evidenced based treatment that is proven effective in treating PTSD, addiction, grief, depression, phobias, anxiety, etc.
Choosing to enter into counseling is not an easy decision. My main goals as a therapist are: 1. To provide the client with a safe environment in order to help them feel comfortable expressing themselves. 2. To gather as much information as possible in order to address their unique needs & provide the best counseling. 3. To utilize a variety of approaches and tailor the counseling to each individual to help the client live with more peace & purpose. Being flexible, knowledgeable & open as a therapist is important. I participate in continuing education on a regular basis in order to provide relevant counseling for my clients.
), an evidenced based treatment that is proven effective in treating PTSD, addiction, grief, depression, phobias, anxiety, etc.
Choosing to enter into counseling is not an easy decision. My main goals as a therapist are: 1. To provide the client with a safe environment in order to help them feel comfortable expressing themselves. 2. To gather as much information as possible in order to address their unique needs & provide the best counseling. 3. To utilize a variety of approaches and tailor the counseling to each individual to help the client live with more peace & purpose. Being flexible, knowledgeable & open as a therapist is important. I participate in continuing education on a regular basis in order to provide relevant counseling for my clients.
(248) 707-1894 View (248) 707-1894
Photo of Kari Spatafore, Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Kari Spatafore
Counselor, MS, LLC
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446
I have been trained to work with the following presenting issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, suicide, trauma, crisis counseling, PTSD, life transitions, human sexuality, and life skills/career counseling.
I implement a straight- forward holistic approach to care, while maintaining a nurturing, non-judgmental, and empathetic therapeutic environment. I believe achieving a greater level of wellness and fulfillment through self-awareness and acceptance helps to contribute to individual and relational growth, along with positively impacting the creation of a happy, healthy lifestyle. Further, I bring real-life experiences coupled with professional knowledge and expertise into the clinical setting, which helps to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients.
I have been trained to work with the following presenting issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, suicide, trauma, crisis counseling, PTSD, life transitions, human sexuality, and life skills/career counseling.
I implement a straight- forward holistic approach to care, while maintaining a nurturing, non-judgmental, and empathetic therapeutic environment. I believe achieving a greater level of wellness and fulfillment through self-awareness and acceptance helps to contribute to individual and relational growth, along with positively impacting the creation of a happy, healthy lifestyle. Further, I bring real-life experiences coupled with professional knowledge and expertise into the clinical setting, which helps to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients.
(248) 988-9453 View (248) 988-9453
Photo of Moments In Mindfulness , Licensed Professional Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Moments In Mindfulness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446
As we move through life, challenges can either keep us stuck or propel us into new ideas, perceptions, and growth. Counseling and life coaching can help navigate those challenges with a positive, healthy mind set. The healthier our mind set, the healthier our relationships will be with our self and others. Depression, anxiety, trauma, can hold us hostage from living our best life. Eclectic therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and others can help bring awareness and change and lead you to a happier, more fulfilling life.
As we move through life, challenges can either keep us stuck or propel us into new ideas, perceptions, and growth. Counseling and life coaching can help navigate those challenges with a positive, healthy mind set. The healthier our mind set, the healthier our relationships will be with our self and others. Depression, anxiety, trauma, can hold us hostage from living our best life. Eclectic therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and others can help bring awareness and change and lead you to a happier, more fulfilling life.
(810) 366-3454 View (810) 366-3454
Photo of Beach Glass Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Beach Glass Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma.
Are you looking for courage, hope, and advancement? Freedom from trauma? Do you just need some relief from the pain? You have purpose and influence and will always be treated with respect and dignity here. There is beauty in life and we will work through the brokenness until you see it in yourself. Together, through self-insight and intentional living, we, will find you and your path to become healthier, less anxious and more fulfilled, less reactive and more responsive. Trust isn't easy, yet through Christian counseling we will find peace and joy for your life and you will find yourself walking with new confidence and hope.
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma.
Are you looking for courage, hope, and advancement? Freedom from trauma? Do you just need some relief from the pain? You have purpose and influence and will always be treated with respect and dignity here. There is beauty in life and we will work through the brokenness until you see it in yourself. Together, through self-insight and intentional living, we, will find you and your path to become healthier, less anxious and more fulfilled, less reactive and more responsive. Trust isn't easy, yet through Christian counseling we will find peace and joy for your life and you will find yourself walking with new confidence and hope.
(810) 255-1818 View (810) 255-1818
Charles Donald Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446
I understand life can be messy and out of balance. I am here to help you chart your course. Whether you struggle with an addiction, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. I would be honored to help you in your journey. As a professional counselor my goal is to help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. For more information check out my website: cdrtherapy.com
I understand life can be messy and out of balance. I am here to help you chart your course. Whether you struggle with an addiction, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. I would be honored to help you in your journey. As a professional counselor my goal is to help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. For more information check out my website: cdrtherapy.com
(810) 634-9911 View (810) 634-9911
Photo of Kari LaFave, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Kari LaFave
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
Are you in a relationship that is causing you to feel unlike who you know yourself to be? Or, maybe you are going through a life changing event that is causing an adverse reaction. Unhealthy relationships or life events can leave us exhausted, confused, depressed and anxious. Sometimes we need help healing and finding out what predisposed us to this type of relationship or event. I listen without judgement and will work with you to build healthy boundaries to help you move forward in a positive direction.
Are you in a relationship that is causing you to feel unlike who you know yourself to be? Or, maybe you are going through a life changing event that is causing an adverse reaction. Unhealthy relationships or life events can leave us exhausted, confused, depressed and anxious. Sometimes we need help healing and finding out what predisposed us to this type of relationship or event. I listen without judgement and will work with you to build healthy boundaries to help you move forward in a positive direction.
(810) 476-2999 View (810) 476-2999
Photo of Jenna Budd, Counselor in Lapeer, MI
Jenna Budd
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lapeer, MI 48446
I am available for clients of all ages, and am able to work with various mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and any other concerns.
I believe that clients are the expert of their life, and have the ability to determine their own solutions to their concerns when in a space that is supportive and understanding. Through therapy, clients can explore both internal and external factors that can then lead to finding solutions for their concerns.
I am available for clients of all ages, and am able to work with various mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and any other concerns.
I believe that clients are the expert of their life, and have the ability to determine their own solutions to their concerns when in a space that is supportive and understanding. Through therapy, clients can explore both internal and external factors that can then lead to finding solutions for their concerns.
(947) 207-4782 View (947) 207-4782
Photo of Madeline Dooley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lapeer, MI
Madeline Dooley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Lapeer, MI 48446  (Online Only)
Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have been privileged to work with diverse individuals facing a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma and addiction. I also have experience in working with individuals going through various life adjustments, transitions and grief. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health and reinforced my belief in the importance of personalized, holistic approaches to therapy.
Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have been privileged to work with diverse individuals facing a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma and addiction. I also have experience in working with individuals going through various life adjustments, transitions and grief. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health and reinforced my belief in the importance of personalized, holistic approaches to therapy.
(989) 601-3804 View (989) 601-3804

See more therapy options for Lapeer

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.