Depression Therapists in Leander, TX

Photo of Keyla Holt, Licensed Master Social Worker in Leander, TX
Keyla Holt
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
Feeling like your inner fire is starting to fade, but unsure why? Or maybe you do know why but do not have the energy to fan it? Feeling stuck, uncertain of next steps, or afraid to step into the next chapter, i.e., embark on a new job, grade/school, etc.? Parents, yearning for heartfelt connections or family dinners? Kiddos, wishing for understanding and respect for your needs and wants from your parents? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and depression, tempting you to draw the shades and retreat into binge-watching on the couch? Please, DON’T! We need your vitality in the outside world.
Feeling like your inner fire is starting to fade, but unsure why? Or maybe you do know why but do not have the energy to fan it? Feeling stuck, uncertain of next steps, or afraid to step into the next chapter, i.e., embark on a new job, grade/school, etc.? Parents, yearning for heartfelt connections or family dinners? Kiddos, wishing for understanding and respect for your needs and wants from your parents? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and depression, tempting you to draw the shades and retreat into binge-watching on the couch? Please, DON’T! We need your vitality in the outside world.
(737) 727-8426 x3 View (737) 727-8426 x3
Photo of Rhea Nell Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Rhea Nell Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
Issues frequently addressed are depression, anxiety, work related stress, complex trauma, grief and loss, and life transitions.
To engage in the process of counseling is to act courageously and purposefully, ofttimes in the midst of difficult circumstances. I am honored to be present with you to help guide you through the process of self-discovery and change. Change is both challenging and possible, and I welcome you into my practice as you begin your journey, taking steps of positive action to achieve your goals.
Issues frequently addressed are depression, anxiety, work related stress, complex trauma, grief and loss, and life transitions.
To engage in the process of counseling is to act courageously and purposefully, ofttimes in the midst of difficult circumstances. I am honored to be present with you to help guide you through the process of self-discovery and change. Change is both challenging and possible, and I welcome you into my practice as you begin your journey, taking steps of positive action to achieve your goals.
(512) 666-9493 View (512) 666-9493
Photo of April Travis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
April Travis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78645  (Online Only)
I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, stress, relational issues, blended families, trauma and suicide ideation.
Are you experiencing difficult challenges in your life? Do you struggle with finding the time to take care of yourself and make positive change? Do you feel lost and need support? I have a passion for helping others to find the answers in order to take charge of their life. I believe that each individual is treated as their own unique person and therefore needs their own unique therapy plan. I believe anyone can change and sometimes the first step can be difficult. I feel strongly about developing healthy coping skills and range from Cognitive Behavioral to Mindfulness. Take that first step, contact me and let's get started today.
I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, stress, relational issues, blended families, trauma and suicide ideation.
Are you experiencing difficult challenges in your life? Do you struggle with finding the time to take care of yourself and make positive change? Do you feel lost and need support? I have a passion for helping others to find the answers in order to take charge of their life. I believe that each individual is treated as their own unique person and therefore needs their own unique therapy plan. I believe anyone can change and sometimes the first step can be difficult. I feel strongly about developing healthy coping skills and range from Cognitive Behavioral to Mindfulness. Take that first step, contact me and let's get started today.
(512) 713-0268 View (512) 713-0268
Photo of Diana Austin, MA, LPC-S Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Diana Austin, MA, LPC-S Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641  (Online Only)
Specialties include communication issues, anxiety, mood disorders, depression, anger management, and life changes.
First, I would like to acknowledge your effort in reaching out to seek guidance. You have taken the first step in improving yourself. I understand it is hard when our initial expectations of how our life "should be" does not match what is happening in the moment. Many times, there are societal, familial and perhaps individual expectations that we feel obligated to fulfill. Sometimes these thoughts of a "normal" life interfere with what our true happiness could be, and this does need to be explored. Essentially, I would like to assist in shifting your perspective which will allow you to feel more balanced in your life.
Specialties include communication issues, anxiety, mood disorders, depression, anger management, and life changes.
First, I would like to acknowledge your effort in reaching out to seek guidance. You have taken the first step in improving yourself. I understand it is hard when our initial expectations of how our life "should be" does not match what is happening in the moment. Many times, there are societal, familial and perhaps individual expectations that we feel obligated to fulfill. Sometimes these thoughts of a "normal" life interfere with what our true happiness could be, and this does need to be explored. Essentially, I would like to assist in shifting your perspective which will allow you to feel more balanced in your life.
(737) 232-5676 View (737) 232-5676
Photo of Nancy E Spence, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Nancy E Spence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
Whether struggling with anxiety, depression, exploring identity, or simply wanting stronger relationships at home or at school, we will discover a variety of techniques tailored towards the client's needs, personality and personal direction.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a background in education who enjoys working with kids 10 and older, teens, and adults from all backgrounds and lifestyles. My approach to counseling is that life is messy but we are in this together. Everyone, whether child or adult, has a unique perspective with a need to feel love, belonging, and a chance to flourish. Together, we will explore finding that authentic inner voice through compassionate self-reflection and inquiry as we work towards personal goals, behavior changes, or perspective taking.
Whether struggling with anxiety, depression, exploring identity, or simply wanting stronger relationships at home or at school, we will discover a variety of techniques tailored towards the client's needs, personality and personal direction.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a background in education who enjoys working with kids 10 and older, teens, and adults from all backgrounds and lifestyles. My approach to counseling is that life is messy but we are in this together. Everyone, whether child or adult, has a unique perspective with a need to feel love, belonging, and a chance to flourish. Together, we will explore finding that authentic inner voice through compassionate self-reflection and inquiry as we work towards personal goals, behavior changes, or perspective taking.
(512) 790-5714 View (512) 790-5714
Photo of Fallon Monique Woodard, Licensed Master Social Worker in Leander, TX
Fallon Monique Woodard
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MPH, BS, LCSW-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641  (Online Only)
Through over a decade of personal and work experiences Ms. Woodard has worked with a wide range of individuals struggling with mental health for the first time and those that feel that they have some form of control of their mental health and seeking assistance in maintaining control. She has worked with individuals diagnosed with Major Depression Disorder, Bipolar I and II Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Schizophrenia, Grief, Schizoaffective Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
Through over a decade of personal and work experiences Ms. Woodard has worked with a wide range of individuals struggling with mental health for the first time and those that feel that they have some form of control of their mental health and seeking assistance in maintaining control. She has worked with individuals diagnosed with Major Depression Disorder, Bipolar I and II Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Schizophrenia, Grief, Schizoaffective Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
(817) 968-3261 View (817) 968-3261
Photo of Integrity Psychology of Austin, Psychologist in Leander, TX
Integrity Psychology of Austin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
Are you feeling depressed, unmotivated, worried, or stressed? Are you not living the life you desire. Can't seem to get on track? Do you want to create greater balance in your life and live more fully and freely? I would like to help. I am a clinical psychologist and work with individuals to promote healing, change, and personal growth. I provide guidance through careful listening, compassionate support, and enthusiasm. I consider you an active partner in creating the changes you desire. My treatment approach is genuine, positive, and non-judgmental and works to promote active curiosity, discovery, and growth.
Are you feeling depressed, unmotivated, worried, or stressed? Are you not living the life you desire. Can't seem to get on track? Do you want to create greater balance in your life and live more fully and freely? I would like to help. I am a clinical psychologist and work with individuals to promote healing, change, and personal growth. I provide guidance through careful listening, compassionate support, and enthusiasm. I consider you an active partner in creating the changes you desire. My treatment approach is genuine, positive, and non-judgmental and works to promote active curiosity, discovery, and growth.
(512) 456-3196 View (512) 456-3196
Photo of Laurie Hamilton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Leander, TX
Laurie Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
I am choosing not to see children under the age of 11, but can work with you, the parent, to help with your child’s anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
Accepting new clients. I specialize in working with women, teens and preteens. I have done so in a variety of ways for more than 25 years. In a positive and caring environment, I will not only listen, but provide you with helpful skills to overcome the struggles. I realize one-size does not fit all and will work with your concerns. You set the goals, and we will get there together.
I am choosing not to see children under the age of 11, but can work with you, the parent, to help with your child’s anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
Accepting new clients. I specialize in working with women, teens and preteens. I have done so in a variety of ways for more than 25 years. In a positive and caring environment, I will not only listen, but provide you with helpful skills to overcome the struggles. I realize one-size does not fit all and will work with your concerns. You set the goals, and we will get there together.
(512) 270-6472 View (512) 270-6472
Photo of Ashleigh Ross-Lind, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Ashleigh Ross-Lind
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
Counseling is not a job for me; it is a passion! All of us need a supportive environment in which one feels deeply heard and accepted. In this busy world, counseling is a place to regroup, reflect, and begin again! I have experience and post graduate study in the areas of depression, parenting, grief/loss, anxiety, transition issues, and substance abuse. Healing from your personal struggles take dedication & support from an experienced professional. The key to a successful counseling experience is finding the therapist that puts you at ease, allowing you to be fully yourself. Let me join you in your journey to a new you!
Counseling is not a job for me; it is a passion! All of us need a supportive environment in which one feels deeply heard and accepted. In this busy world, counseling is a place to regroup, reflect, and begin again! I have experience and post graduate study in the areas of depression, parenting, grief/loss, anxiety, transition issues, and substance abuse. Healing from your personal struggles take dedication & support from an experienced professional. The key to a successful counseling experience is finding the therapist that puts you at ease, allowing you to be fully yourself. Let me join you in your journey to a new you!
(512) 402-6800 View (512) 402-6800
Photo of Lakeline Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Lakeline Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
Are you seeking support for your own personal empowerment, or working through a challenging life transition? Do your relationships feel lonely or your anxiety and depression feel overwhelming? Are you neurodiverse or gender diverse and looking for a support person or helping your child find one? Therapy can be helpful and provide hope with many life issues. Learning coping skills and cognitive strategies, strengthening personal connections and honoring self can significantly enhance life satisfaction. My goal is to help maximize your individual resources and support you in whatever way is most comfortable to you.
Are you seeking support for your own personal empowerment, or working through a challenging life transition? Do your relationships feel lonely or your anxiety and depression feel overwhelming? Are you neurodiverse or gender diverse and looking for a support person or helping your child find one? Therapy can be helpful and provide hope with many life issues. Learning coping skills and cognitive strategies, strengthening personal connections and honoring self can significantly enhance life satisfaction. My goal is to help maximize your individual resources and support you in whatever way is most comfortable to you.
(512) 607-7846 View (512) 607-7846
Photo of Nicole Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leander, TX
Nicole Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
I specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress or social difficulties.
Has life taken a turn leaving you anxious, overwhelmed and even numb? Not sure how to help yourself, your kids or just feel like you’ve lost control? It takes great strength to share our insecurities, worries and pain with others. I would love to help you and/or your family in your journey to resolve whatever is bringing you here. My goal in therapy is to help you feel comfortable, supported and understood. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with teens and adults from all different backgrounds.
I specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress or social difficulties.
Has life taken a turn leaving you anxious, overwhelmed and even numb? Not sure how to help yourself, your kids or just feel like you’ve lost control? It takes great strength to share our insecurities, worries and pain with others. I would love to help you and/or your family in your journey to resolve whatever is bringing you here. My goal in therapy is to help you feel comfortable, supported and understood. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with teens and adults from all different backgrounds.
(512) 572-9251 View (512) 572-9251
Photo of Abbey Pelosi, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leander, TX
Abbey Pelosi, LCSW-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
I have experience counseling individuals through issues related to childhood trauma, loss, anxiety and depression, relationship conflicts, parenting issues, and illness.
Therapy is all about helping clients in a way that makes sense for them - it's a mutually agreed upon experience that can be interactive and playful. Going to therapy doesn't mean something is "wrong." It can be as simple and positive as sitting with a stranger, being heard and gaining insight. My style is eclectic and tailored to my clients' particular needs. I draw on a multitude of influences, primarily psychodynamic, interpersonal and relational.
I have experience counseling individuals through issues related to childhood trauma, loss, anxiety and depression, relationship conflicts, parenting issues, and illness.
Therapy is all about helping clients in a way that makes sense for them - it's a mutually agreed upon experience that can be interactive and playful. Going to therapy doesn't mean something is "wrong." It can be as simple and positive as sitting with a stranger, being heard and gaining insight. My style is eclectic and tailored to my clients' particular needs. I draw on a multitude of influences, primarily psychodynamic, interpersonal and relational.
(512) 675-1450 View (512) 675-1450
Photo of Jan Lea Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Jan Lea Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
It's a drug free approach to anxiety, bipolar, depression and behavioral issues with children.
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
It's a drug free approach to anxiety, bipolar, depression and behavioral issues with children.
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
(512) 271-5413 View (512) 271-5413
Photo of Alison Lough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Alison Lough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
Let's tackle those challenging emotions head-on, like depression and anxiety.
As we grow into adulthood, we often encounter challenging life transitions that can shake our confidence, self-esteem, and sense of identity. My aim is to support individuals in navigating these changes and rediscovering their strengths. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor based in Texas. My areas of expertise include treating teens and adults for a variety of issues such as, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/Abuse, relationship problems, and adjustment to life changes. I also run a Therapy Group incorporating crafting like knitting and crocheting as an innovative approach that has many benefits to mental health.
Let's tackle those challenging emotions head-on, like depression and anxiety.
As we grow into adulthood, we often encounter challenging life transitions that can shake our confidence, self-esteem, and sense of identity. My aim is to support individuals in navigating these changes and rediscovering their strengths. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor based in Texas. My areas of expertise include treating teens and adults for a variety of issues such as, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/Abuse, relationship problems, and adjustment to life changes. I also run a Therapy Group incorporating crafting like knitting and crocheting as an innovative approach that has many benefits to mental health.
View
Photo of Janice Lee Hurt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Janice Lee Hurt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, EdD
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
My experience is with adolescents and adult issues, including anxiety, grief, relationships, suicidal ideation, depression, anger, trauma and family conflict using EMDR and CBT.
I have been working with adolescents and parents in the school system for over 19 years as a school counselor, and have held my LPC license for over 14 years. I am an LPC supervisor. I enjoy working with adolescents, helping them to work through their issues, ranging from underachieving to relationship conflict (and everything in between). I also enjoy working with adults, helping them to understand their roles as parents so that they are better able to help support their children in a positive, healthy manner. In addition to parenting, I also provide marriage and family counseling.
My experience is with adolescents and adult issues, including anxiety, grief, relationships, suicidal ideation, depression, anger, trauma and family conflict using EMDR and CBT.
I have been working with adolescents and parents in the school system for over 19 years as a school counselor, and have held my LPC license for over 14 years. I am an LPC supervisor. I enjoy working with adolescents, helping them to work through their issues, ranging from underachieving to relationship conflict (and everything in between). I also enjoy working with adults, helping them to understand their roles as parents so that they are better able to help support their children in a positive, healthy manner. In addition to parenting, I also provide marriage and family counseling.
(512) 643-6260 View (512) 643-6260
Photo of Amy Urbanek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Amy Urbanek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults (ages 18 and up) for a variety of individual therapy needs including depression, anxiety, and those struggle with coping skills for their day-to-day lives.
Are you ready to start the journey towards living your best life? It's easy to feel overwhelmed in today's fast-paced world. The pressure to succeed, trying to make a living, or just getting through each day can be hard and we often feel like we are lost on our current path in life. As your therapist, I will collaborate with you to find your best way forward to feeling better. Working together we can find ways to get you on the path to changing where you are now to moving towards where you want to be.
I specialize in treating adults (ages 18 and up) for a variety of individual therapy needs including depression, anxiety, and those struggle with coping skills for their day-to-day lives.
Are you ready to start the journey towards living your best life? It's easy to feel overwhelmed in today's fast-paced world. The pressure to succeed, trying to make a living, or just getting through each day can be hard and we often feel like we are lost on our current path in life. As your therapist, I will collaborate with you to find your best way forward to feeling better. Working together we can find ways to get you on the path to changing where you are now to moving towards where you want to be.
(737) 201-1578 View (737) 201-1578
Photo of Ariell Caballero Telehealth Only, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Ariell Caballero Telehealth Only
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BS, NCC, TF-CBT, CBT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641  (Online Only)
I am an eclectic therapist that combines emotion-focused strategies with psychotherapeutic evidence-based approaches. The underlying principles in my approach are that treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem and more can be traced to experiences, beliefs of shame, and other negative core beliefs in an individual. Finding out these aspects of a person’s life, naming them, and working through them are components of her counseling process. I believe in providing a holistic counseling therapy process so you live a wholly present, healthy life.
I am an eclectic therapist that combines emotion-focused strategies with psychotherapeutic evidence-based approaches. The underlying principles in my approach are that treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem and more can be traced to experiences, beliefs of shame, and other negative core beliefs in an individual. Finding out these aspects of a person’s life, naming them, and working through them are components of her counseling process. I believe in providing a holistic counseling therapy process so you live a wholly present, healthy life.
(737) 215-4533 View (737) 215-4533
Photo of Emily Abel, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leander, TX
Emily Abel, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
I have experience working with individuals suffering from addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career issues, and psychiatric crises.
My goal is to provide a nonjudgmental and safe space for you whether you are moving through a life transition or trying to cope with the day-to-day stressors life offers. If you struggle with addiction, relationship/family conflict, depression, panic, or anxiety, I would love to offer you the space to explore these challenges through a collaborative and strengths-based approach and help you find your own path and peace.
I have experience working with individuals suffering from addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career issues, and psychiatric crises.
My goal is to provide a nonjudgmental and safe space for you whether you are moving through a life transition or trying to cope with the day-to-day stressors life offers. If you struggle with addiction, relationship/family conflict, depression, panic, or anxiety, I would love to offer you the space to explore these challenges through a collaborative and strengths-based approach and help you find your own path and peace.
(512) 598-5564 View (512) 598-5564
Photo of Shayna Parker-Kokot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leander, TX
Shayna Parker-Kokot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641  (Online Only)
Shayna works with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, addiction, and trauma.
I believe that we all have the right to be mentally, spiritually and emotionally healthy. I love having a part in impacting the lives of others, and providing hope and support during life’s challenges--big or small.
Shayna works with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, addiction, and trauma.
I believe that we all have the right to be mentally, spiritually and emotionally healthy. I love having a part in impacting the lives of others, and providing hope and support during life’s challenges--big or small.
(903) 225-8158 View (903) 225-8158
Photo of Tyler Downing, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leander, TX
Tyler Downing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78646
Tyler has previously worked with adults and adolescents who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, men's issues, videogame addiction, grief and loss, and oppositional concerns.
Tyler is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in assisting clients overcome intensive challenges in their life over the course of his career. He attended Southwestern University to complete his Bachelors of Science in Psychology. He graduated from Angelo State University with his Masters degree in counseling, and since then has worked in community services specializing in outpatient behavioral health and assessment of intensive mental health concerns. Tyler has experience working with individuals with a wide range of concerns and backgrounds including those who identify as LGBTQIA+
Tyler has previously worked with adults and adolescents who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem, men's issues, videogame addiction, grief and loss, and oppositional concerns.
Tyler is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in assisting clients overcome intensive challenges in their life over the course of his career. He attended Southwestern University to complete his Bachelors of Science in Psychology. He graduated from Angelo State University with his Masters degree in counseling, and since then has worked in community services specializing in outpatient behavioral health and assessment of intensive mental health concerns. Tyler has experience working with individuals with a wide range of concerns and backgrounds including those who identify as LGBTQIA+
(512) 598-9785 View (512) 598-9785
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.