Depression Therapists in Laredo, TX

Photo of Dr. Susan Chanderbhan - Chanderbhan Psychological Services, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Chanderbhan Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
We are a dedicated, passionate group of therapists, providing high quality care to the local Laredo community and the state of Texas. We provide compassionate guidance and support as you work toward meeting your life goals. We work with teens, adults and couples who are struggling with conflict, depression, anxiety, self-worth, difficult relationships, and other issues that negatively impact their lives. Dr. Chanderbhan also performs psychological assessments (e.g., customs and border patrol, law enforcemment, ADHD, bariatric surgery and other psychological evaluations) for adults.
We are a dedicated, passionate group of therapists, providing high quality care to the local Laredo community and the state of Texas. We provide compassionate guidance and support as you work toward meeting your life goals. We work with teens, adults and couples who are struggling with conflict, depression, anxiety, self-worth, difficult relationships, and other issues that negatively impact their lives. Dr. Chanderbhan also performs psychological assessments (e.g., customs and border patrol, law enforcemment, ADHD, bariatric surgery and other psychological evaluations) for adults.
(956) 436-5805 View (956) 436-5805
Photo of Paola T. Velazquez, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paola T. Velazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Humans are built for connection, and my goal is to help you reach a place where you feel connected to your authentic self and connect with those who are important to you. I seek to empower my clients by helping them realize the great resources they already have access to within themselves. I serve individuals that have been struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and any other difficulties that are not allowing them to enjoy life.
Humans are built for connection, and my goal is to help you reach a place where you feel connected to your authentic self and connect with those who are important to you. I seek to empower my clients by helping them realize the great resources they already have access to within themselves. I serve individuals that have been struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and any other difficulties that are not allowing them to enjoy life.
(956) 436-5448 View (956) 436-5448
Photo of Kari Homan Shannon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kari Homan Shannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041
Hi, my name is Kari Homan Shannon, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I like to focus on the client and their needs. I have been in practice since 2007, addressing mostly depression, anxiety, PTSD, hoarding and trauma. My career has mostly been focused on depression, anxiety, PTSD, hoarding, and trauma. As mentioned earlier, I tend to like to get you up on your feet as quickly as possible while recognizing that each person will have their own pace and own preferences. We will do whatever you're comfortable with.
Hi, my name is Kari Homan Shannon, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I like to focus on the client and their needs. I have been in practice since 2007, addressing mostly depression, anxiety, PTSD, hoarding and trauma. My career has mostly been focused on depression, anxiety, PTSD, hoarding, and trauma. As mentioned earlier, I tend to like to get you up on your feet as quickly as possible while recognizing that each person will have their own pace and own preferences. We will do whatever you're comfortable with.
(281) 688-9331 View (281) 688-9331
Photo of Matthew F Pici, MEd , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew F Pici
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LPC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78045
Do you look like you have it all together but inside you feel anxious, depressed, overwhelmed and consumed by issues driving your life and dictating your many decisions and situations? You know your work and your relationships with family, friends, co-workers and/or significant other would be so much easier if you could just get a handle on these issues that have been plaguing you for too long. Any change in life, a bump in the road, grief, or an issue with health can send you into a place of fear and being irritable, wanting to run away, or feeling helpless. You have realized it is time for a better life.
Do you look like you have it all together but inside you feel anxious, depressed, overwhelmed and consumed by issues driving your life and dictating your many decisions and situations? You know your work and your relationships with family, friends, co-workers and/or significant other would be so much easier if you could just get a handle on these issues that have been plaguing you for too long. Any change in life, a bump in the road, grief, or an issue with health can send you into a place of fear and being irritable, wanting to run away, or feeling helpless. You have realized it is time for a better life.
(956) 405-1174 View (956) 405-1174
Photo of Oscar Higareda, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Oscar Higareda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78046  (Online Only)
I specialize in Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Crisis, Anger, Adolescent, Men's issues, and Self-esteem problems.
At times, we may not have been taught how to navigate our emotions, process our thoughts, or ask for help. I've encountered individuals who, despite their strength, felt uneasy about seeking assistance. This is a natural response; you've had to be resilient. However, this doesn't mean you shouldn't have the opportunity to process these experiences; you have every right to acknowledge your emotions and should be able to thrive and lead a healthier life. If you allow me, I can offer you a secure and non-judgmental environment to explore these emotions and thoughts, and together, we can strive for more positive perspectives.
I specialize in Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Crisis, Anger, Adolescent, Men's issues, and Self-esteem problems.
At times, we may not have been taught how to navigate our emotions, process our thoughts, or ask for help. I've encountered individuals who, despite their strength, felt uneasy about seeking assistance. This is a natural response; you've had to be resilient. However, this doesn't mean you shouldn't have the opportunity to process these experiences; you have every right to acknowledge your emotions and should be able to thrive and lead a healthier life. If you allow me, I can offer you a secure and non-judgmental environment to explore these emotions and thoughts, and together, we can strive for more positive perspectives.
(888) 237-4911 View (888) 237-4911
Photo of Monica Mendoza, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78043  (Online Only)
I work with adults ages 18 and over dealing with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, trauma and abuse, relationship or family issues, conflict resolution, and adjustment to life-changing events.
Hi there, I am Monica! I am a licensed therapist in the state of Texas and have spent the last 21 years growing as an effective helper in the world of counseling and therapy. Achieving holistic health and reaping the rewards through genuine fulfillment takes courage and calls for commitment of the mind, body, and soul. Commitment to therapy as a pathway to that level of health is not inconceivable and is a journey you do not have to walk alone. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
I work with adults ages 18 and over dealing with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, trauma and abuse, relationship or family issues, conflict resolution, and adjustment to life-changing events.
Hi there, I am Monica! I am a licensed therapist in the state of Texas and have spent the last 21 years growing as an effective helper in the world of counseling and therapy. Achieving holistic health and reaping the rewards through genuine fulfillment takes courage and calls for commitment of the mind, body, and soul. Commitment to therapy as a pathway to that level of health is not inconceivable and is a journey you do not have to walk alone. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
(877) 873-9547 View (877) 873-9547
Photo of Laura Klueppel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Klueppel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78043
Welcome, all. My name is Laura and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I work with clients of all ages and a broad range of mental health concerns, but focus on anxiety and depression, LGBTQ clients, and relationship concerns. My holistic approach utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy: I focus on changing thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I get to know what works for each individual, because there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy! I'm passionate about helping people solve their problems, and I look forward to working with you.
Welcome, all. My name is Laura and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I work with clients of all ages and a broad range of mental health concerns, but focus on anxiety and depression, LGBTQ clients, and relationship concerns. My holistic approach utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy: I focus on changing thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I get to know what works for each individual, because there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy! I'm passionate about helping people solve their problems, and I look forward to working with you.
(832) 662-7389 View (832) 662-7389
Photo of Dr. Adriana Blasco-Rubio, DPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Adriana Blasco-Rubio
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041
Common reasons clients see me include: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, feeling “stuck”.
Life's journey can be challenging at times. You might experience struggles with anxiety, depression, relationships and more. Support and guidance can help you find a better path leading to increased hope, joy and healing. Let's work together to overcome your struggles and grow stronger through the process. Imagine feeling less burdened by life's circumstances, more resilient to challenges, having more gratifying relationships and feeling comfortable being authentically you. Taking the first step and seeking help takes courage. I look forward to working with you and exploring the best path for your own personal growth and well-being.
Common reasons clients see me include: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, feeling “stuck”.
Life's journey can be challenging at times. You might experience struggles with anxiety, depression, relationships and more. Support and guidance can help you find a better path leading to increased hope, joy and healing. Let's work together to overcome your struggles and grow stronger through the process. Imagine feeling less burdened by life's circumstances, more resilient to challenges, having more gratifying relationships and feeling comfortable being authentically you. Taking the first step and seeking help takes courage. I look forward to working with you and exploring the best path for your own personal growth and well-being.
(956) 247-4775 View (956) 247-4775
Photo of Gerardo Esqueda - Rekindle Hope Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rekindle Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Regardless of age, gender, religion, or sexual orientation, navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply the daily burden of feeling stuck can overwhelm you.
During work, school, or family challenges, feeling overwhelmed is entirely understandable. The hurdles you face, filled with worries and obstacles, can seem daunting and might even shake your values and optimism. Please remember, that the healing journey can be tough and seem like an uphill climb, but you're not alone. Reach out for support, lean on loved ones, and take small, gentle steps toward finding peace. You have a deep well of strength within you, and with each step, you're moving closer to a brighter, calmer future. You are resilient and will overcome these challenges, one day at a time.
Regardless of age, gender, religion, or sexual orientation, navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply the daily burden of feeling stuck can overwhelm you.
During work, school, or family challenges, feeling overwhelmed is entirely understandable. The hurdles you face, filled with worries and obstacles, can seem daunting and might even shake your values and optimism. Please remember, that the healing journey can be tough and seem like an uphill climb, but you're not alone. Reach out for support, lean on loved ones, and take small, gentle steps toward finding peace. You have a deep well of strength within you, and with each step, you're moving closer to a brighter, calmer future. You are resilient and will overcome these challenges, one day at a time.
(956) 948-7974 View (956) 948-7974
Photo of Marta Lilia Ramon - Serenity Total Mind Wellness, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serenity Total Mind Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
In life, we reach a point or go through a sudden life change that requires for one to make life adjustments. At times, these life adjustments are due to unexpected circumstances or situations that occur due to a form of trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, divorce that affect our mental health. This can make one feel hopeless and alone. I can help guide you, help manage, help with teaching you skills that you can apply to these situations daily. I will listen without judgement and apply my expertise and approach that I believe can help you with coping skills and take on these challenges.
In life, we reach a point or go through a sudden life change that requires for one to make life adjustments. At times, these life adjustments are due to unexpected circumstances or situations that occur due to a form of trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, divorce that affect our mental health. This can make one feel hopeless and alone. I can help guide you, help manage, help with teaching you skills that you can apply to these situations daily. I will listen without judgement and apply my expertise and approach that I believe can help you with coping skills and take on these challenges.
(956) 441-2643 View (956) 441-2643
Photo of Lupita Perez-Gonzalez, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lupita Perez-Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Let's work together to manage the stress, anxiety, or depression you may be facing.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. In our sessions, we'll tune into your emotions and reactions, helping you clarify your values and guide you toward becoming the person you aspire to be. My commitment is to provide a safe, accepting space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
Let's work together to manage the stress, anxiety, or depression you may be facing.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. In our sessions, we'll tune into your emotions and reactions, helping you clarify your values and guide you toward becoming the person you aspire to be. My commitment is to provide a safe, accepting space where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
(956) 489-4493 View (956) 489-4493
Photo of Alyssa Vera, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Vera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to a space where you are valued and understood. Where you can find strength in vulnerability and be brave to explore all the parts that make you, you. My name is Alyssa Vera, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor experienced with treating anxiety, depression, life adjustments, stress management, coping strategies, grief and PTSD/Trauma. My practice is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your concerns, build resilience, and discover effective strategies for navigating life challenges.
Hello, and welcome to a space where you are valued and understood. Where you can find strength in vulnerability and be brave to explore all the parts that make you, you. My name is Alyssa Vera, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor experienced with treating anxiety, depression, life adjustments, stress management, coping strategies, grief and PTSD/Trauma. My practice is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your concerns, build resilience, and discover effective strategies for navigating life challenges.
(830) 326-7044 View (830) 326-7044
Photo of Janice Park, LPCA
Janice Park
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041  (Online Only)
Most of my clients are seeking help with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Are you having a hard time understanding your emotions and their purpose? Do you need a place where you can feel safe, understood, and free of judgment? Are you looking for tools to help you respond to problems and the people around you? Are you seeking to develop more courage and confidence? Trauma, anxiety, and depression can leave us feeling lost and broken. When you work with me you will be able to find your true authentic self. It is important you find someone who makes you feel safe. I offer a free consultation where we can make sure that I am the right fit for you.
Most of my clients are seeking help with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Are you having a hard time understanding your emotions and their purpose? Do you need a place where you can feel safe, understood, and free of judgment? Are you looking for tools to help you respond to problems and the people around you? Are you seeking to develop more courage and confidence? Trauma, anxiety, and depression can leave us feeling lost and broken. When you work with me you will be able to find your true authentic self. It is important you find someone who makes you feel safe. I offer a free consultation where we can make sure that I am the right fit for you.
(956) 955-6827 View (956) 955-6827
Photo of Jessica Ann Santos, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Ann Santos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78045  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Jessica, a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. For the past 8 years, I've been dedicated to supporting individuals and their families in crisis across Texas, particularly those in underserved communities who often face significant barriers to mental health care. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and trauma. I believe trauma is stored in the body and revealed in relationships and being strong is exhausting. It's time to stop walking on eggshells, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and heal!
Hi! I'm Jessica, a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. For the past 8 years, I've been dedicated to supporting individuals and their families in crisis across Texas, particularly those in underserved communities who often face significant barriers to mental health care. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and trauma. I believe trauma is stored in the body and revealed in relationships and being strong is exhausting. It's time to stop walking on eggshells, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and heal!
(956) 253-2270 View (956) 253-2270
Photo of Vanessa Canales-Cruz - Lifepath Counseling PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifepath Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78040
I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with college, life transitions, depression, stress management, grief, heartbreak, career changes, self-esteem, anxiety, women's issues, relationship issues, and healing from trauma.
My passion in therapy stems from believing that everyone has a unique life story to bring into counseling and they need a place to safely explore that story. I am an empathic and understanding counselor who works motivationally with my clients to give them the opportunity to develop greater awareness of this story and how they understand themselves and their challenges. My desire is to collaboratively work with my clients using various methods and expressive techniques so that through therapy clients reconnect with themselves, their strengths, and develop new ways of being and connecting with others.
I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with college, life transitions, depression, stress management, grief, heartbreak, career changes, self-esteem, anxiety, women's issues, relationship issues, and healing from trauma.
My passion in therapy stems from believing that everyone has a unique life story to bring into counseling and they need a place to safely explore that story. I am an empathic and understanding counselor who works motivationally with my clients to give them the opportunity to develop greater awareness of this story and how they understand themselves and their challenges. My desire is to collaboratively work with my clients using various methods and expressive techniques so that through therapy clients reconnect with themselves, their strengths, and develop new ways of being and connecting with others.
(210) 625-4484 View (210) 625-4484
Photo of Teresa Y Chapa-Cantu - Resiliency Psychological Center LLC, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Resiliency Psychological Center LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78046
We provide bilingual (Spanish/English) psychological evaluations and psychotherapy, and all our clinicians are specialized in treatments for anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Hi, I'm Dr. Chapa-Cantu, a Licensed Psychologist. I was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, as were most of our clinicians. Our group consists of bilingual, compassionate clinicians with a passion to serve our local community. We believe in the power of change through relationships, and the amazing RESILIENCY that is an integral part of all of us. If you have considered therapy, but hesitated in the past, call us for a free 20 minute consultation to see if therapy is a good fit for you. We welcome children and adults, and have a particular interest in working with our local population.
We provide bilingual (Spanish/English) psychological evaluations and psychotherapy, and all our clinicians are specialized in treatments for anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Hi, I'm Dr. Chapa-Cantu, a Licensed Psychologist. I was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, as were most of our clinicians. Our group consists of bilingual, compassionate clinicians with a passion to serve our local community. We believe in the power of change through relationships, and the amazing RESILIENCY that is an integral part of all of us. If you have considered therapy, but hesitated in the past, call us for a free 20 minute consultation to see if therapy is a good fit for you. We welcome children and adults, and have a particular interest in working with our local population.
(956) 284-6524 View (956) 284-6524
Photo of Lillian Maria Morales-Speer, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lillian Maria Morales-Speer
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78040
Waitlist for new clients
I work with professionals experiencing challenges maintaining a balanced work-life equilibrium and with emotional health imbalances stemming from the demanding nature of their professional life. My clients feel persistent worry, a pervasive sense of overwhelm, mood disturbances, strained interpersonal relationships, and/or a pronounced lack of self-care. They experience anxiety and depression, worsened by their demanding careers. Their goal is to regain control over their emotional state, manage stress, and nurture their overall well-being. Their motivation is to alleviate suffering, mend relationships, and prioritize self-care.
I work with professionals experiencing challenges maintaining a balanced work-life equilibrium and with emotional health imbalances stemming from the demanding nature of their professional life. My clients feel persistent worry, a pervasive sense of overwhelm, mood disturbances, strained interpersonal relationships, and/or a pronounced lack of self-care. They experience anxiety and depression, worsened by their demanding careers. Their goal is to regain control over their emotional state, manage stress, and nurture their overall well-being. Their motivation is to alleviate suffering, mend relationships, and prioritize self-care.
(210) 405-6140 View (210) 405-6140
Photo of Veronica Benavidez Mejia, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica Benavidez Mejia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78045  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety related disorders, depression, grief, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, difficulty coping with change or just doing daily life.
Creating an environment where one feels comfortable and safe is essential during the therapeutic process. It is important to me to teach and empower you to be your own agent of change as well as be an anchor for yourself when presented with difficulties in life. I am eager to work with clients of all populations, including the LGBTQ Community and other minorities.
I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety related disorders, depression, grief, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, difficulty coping with change or just doing daily life.
Creating an environment where one feels comfortable and safe is essential during the therapeutic process. It is important to me to teach and empower you to be your own agent of change as well as be an anchor for yourself when presented with difficulties in life. I am eager to work with clients of all populations, including the LGBTQ Community and other minorities.
(830) 623-6172 View (830) 623-6172
Photo of Erik E Martinez, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erik E Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78045
I have extensive training in stress disorders using psychological measurements through proven therapy techniques for individuals battling with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, panic disorders, obsessive thinking, and depression.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor and part of the National Board of Certified Counselors. As well, I am a Professional Psychologist and part of the American Psychological Association with training in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
I have extensive training in stress disorders using psychological measurements through proven therapy techniques for individuals battling with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, panic disorders, obsessive thinking, and depression.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor and part of the National Board of Certified Counselors. As well, I am a Professional Psychologist and part of the American Psychological Association with training in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
(956) 253-7778 View (956) 253-7778
Photo of Lourdes Ornelas: Lens Neurofeedback Practitioner ..... - Curious Counselor Center, LENS Practitioner, MS,  LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Curious Counselor Center, LENS Practitioner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041
The “Combo” has proven effective with quicker relief of symptoms such as PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Alzheimer’s(early stages)ADHD/ADD, Migraine’s, Head injury, and much more….
Imagine walking through a dense forest, the path is unclear, shrubs scratch at your feet and the sound of your heartbeat is loud in your ears. Your head replays dark images of memories of a hard phase of life where you experience negative beliefs and distressful emotions. In this moment of uncertainty and fear you wake up and realize you were having a nightmare. This leads to internal confusion because the bucket of emotions feels true. Are you ready to live without these challenges? I can help you… I have successfully treated clients with positive outcomes using Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) therapy.
The “Combo” has proven effective with quicker relief of symptoms such as PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Alzheimer’s(early stages)ADHD/ADD, Migraine’s, Head injury, and much more….
Imagine walking through a dense forest, the path is unclear, shrubs scratch at your feet and the sound of your heartbeat is loud in your ears. Your head replays dark images of memories of a hard phase of life where you experience negative beliefs and distressful emotions. In this moment of uncertainty and fear you wake up and realize you were having a nightmare. This leads to internal confusion because the bucket of emotions feels true. Are you ready to live without these challenges? I can help you… I have successfully treated clients with positive outcomes using Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) therapy.
(956) 903-2676 View (956) 903-2676
1
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.