Photo of CradleStone, LLC , Counselor in Anacortes, WA
CradleStone, LLC
Counselor, MS, MAC, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Are you alone and feeling no support? Is your teenager struggling to be part of your family? Whether your teen is acting out through high-risk behaviors or isolating through technology, your family is probably feeling the strain. When you aren't sure how to help your teen or what they truly need, it can feel overwhelming and hopeless. I'm here to support you, your teen, and your family so you can move through your challenges together. Individuals seeking help with depressive or anxious feelings can find solutions through me as well.
Are you alone and feeling no support? Is your teenager struggling to be part of your family? Whether your teen is acting out through high-risk behaviors or isolating through technology, your family is probably feeling the strain. When you aren't sure how to help your teen or what they truly need, it can feel overwhelming and hopeless. I'm here to support you, your teen, and your family so you can move through your challenges together. Individuals seeking help with depressive or anxious feelings can find solutions through me as well.
(360) 614-2842 View (360) 614-2842
Photo of Che Blaine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Che Blaine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
The intention I have is to explore with you your desire to have a more healthy balance in the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical aspects of your life. A central question that I keep in mind is: "how can I be helpful?" I encourage my clients to make overall goals for our counseling relationship as well as for each appointment. Your happiness and freedom is my goal. My hope is to create together an atmosphere of safety, respect and trust. My focus is to encourage my clients' exploration of their own personal power, wisdom and resources for understanding, healing and happiness.
The intention I have is to explore with you your desire to have a more healthy balance in the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical aspects of your life. A central question that I keep in mind is: "how can I be helpful?" I encourage my clients to make overall goals for our counseling relationship as well as for each appointment. Your happiness and freedom is my goal. My hope is to create together an atmosphere of safety, respect and trust. My focus is to encourage my clients' exploration of their own personal power, wisdom and resources for understanding, healing and happiness.
(360) 842-0714 View (360) 842-0714
Photo of Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, SUDP, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
(360) 219-9635 View (360) 219-9635
Photo of Jonathan Vander Schuur, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Jonathan Vander Schuur
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
(833) 232-4735 View (833) 232-4735
Photo of Thom Thornsberry Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Thom Thornsberry Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Not accepting new clients
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
(206) 207-3006 View (206) 207-3006

Online Therapists

Photo of Chance Boley, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Chance Boley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I work with people dealing with emotional problems that manifest as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma. The encounters with emotions seem powerful, overwhelming, and mysterious. They may feel so powerful, that you push away, stuff down, use substances, or even allow the emotions to direct your actions and thoughts. It can feel confusing of how you can build strength to overcome emotional wounds. How do you make sense of what doesn’t always make sense? Exploring your emotions with a therapist can be healing and encouraging.
I work with people dealing with emotional problems that manifest as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma. The encounters with emotions seem powerful, overwhelming, and mysterious. They may feel so powerful, that you push away, stuff down, use substances, or even allow the emotions to direct your actions and thoughts. It can feel confusing of how you can build strength to overcome emotional wounds. How do you make sense of what doesn’t always make sense? Exploring your emotions with a therapist can be healing and encouraging.
(206) 800-0387 View (206) 800-0387
Photo of Gaaren Anderson MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Gaaren Anderson MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
My dual training in mental health (anxiety, depression, Impulse, addictive behaviors, etc.
We will not try to make you do what somebody else wants you to do. We start with your goals & find ways to help you develop the necessary skills. We have found that, if a person's individual wishes are not represented in the solution, it will not work in the long run. So there is a strong emphasis on helping each person take responsibility and control over their own happiness. Some things are better handled individually, and some things are better handled with both people in the room. Our unique blend of individual & couples therapy is quite effective.
My dual training in mental health (anxiety, depression, Impulse, addictive behaviors, etc.
We will not try to make you do what somebody else wants you to do. We start with your goals & find ways to help you develop the necessary skills. We have found that, if a person's individual wishes are not represented in the solution, it will not work in the long run. So there is a strong emphasis on helping each person take responsibility and control over their own happiness. Some things are better handled individually, and some things are better handled with both people in the room. Our unique blend of individual & couples therapy is quite effective.
(206) 745-0931 View (206) 745-0931
Photo of Brian J Warren, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Brian J Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
I enjoy helping couples, families and individuals in working on relationship issues and concerns in a wide variety of areas these may be facing or dealing with. Some of the issues I can help with include depression, anxiety, health and medical problems, grief, loss, transitions, adjustment, self-esteem, troubled/at-risk youth or children, marriage and couple relationship issues, step-families, relationship concerns, sexual issues, teen concerns, child development, sibling and extended family concerns, and more. I work with clients on their issues and help them attain their goals. I focus on strengths, successes, emotions, thoughts and feelings in helping them.
I enjoy helping couples, families and individuals in working on relationship issues and concerns in a wide variety of areas these may be facing or dealing with. Some of the issues I can help with include depression, anxiety, health and medical problems, grief, loss, transitions, adjustment, self-esteem, troubled/at-risk youth or children, marriage and couple relationship issues, step-families, relationship concerns, sexual issues, teen concerns, child development, sibling and extended family concerns, and more. I work with clients on their issues and help them attain their goals. I focus on strengths, successes, emotions, thoughts and feelings in helping them.
(206) 818-3223 View (206) 818-3223
Photo of Dr. Keri Clark, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Dr. Keri Clark
Psychologist, PhD, LPsy
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Is your relationship struggling from the trauma of sexual secrets, sexual addiction, or infidelity? Has substance use hurt your relationships? If you are finding it difficult to move forward after the discovery of betrayal or addiction, I can help you create a plan to heal, reconnect with your partner, and save your relationship. I offer a safe space for you to discuss your past behaviors and the havoc they've created in your life. You will learn to free yourself from overwhelming feelings of shame and depression. I will support you with whatever you are facing so you know that you are not alone.
Is your relationship struggling from the trauma of sexual secrets, sexual addiction, or infidelity? Has substance use hurt your relationships? If you are finding it difficult to move forward after the discovery of betrayal or addiction, I can help you create a plan to heal, reconnect with your partner, and save your relationship. I offer a safe space for you to discuss your past behaviors and the havoc they've created in your life. You will learn to free yourself from overwhelming feelings of shame and depression. I will support you with whatever you are facing so you know that you are not alone.
(425) 434-5931 View (425) 434-5931
Photo of Tim Raymond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Tim Raymond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
Now accepting new patients! My practice includes working with individuals, couples, and families. For individual therapy, I see adolescents age 13 and up as well as adults. Are you looking to improve relationships or gain better insight into your behaviors? Would you like to improve your resiliency and overall happiness? I offer a judgement-free and collaborative space where we can tackle the challenges you face together. I work to address the whole person by first focusing on fundamental needs, before progressing to higher-level needs like love, belonging, and self-esteem.
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
Now accepting new patients! My practice includes working with individuals, couples, and families. For individual therapy, I see adolescents age 13 and up as well as adults. Are you looking to improve relationships or gain better insight into your behaviors? Would you like to improve your resiliency and overall happiness? I offer a judgement-free and collaborative space where we can tackle the challenges you face together. I work to address the whole person by first focusing on fundamental needs, before progressing to higher-level needs like love, belonging, and self-esteem.
(360) 223-6031 View (360) 223-6031
Photo of Erik Bohlin, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Erik Bohlin
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Lake Stevens, WA 98258
I understand addiction, depression and anxiety both personally and professionally.
It is tough times right now! People are struggling. I am here to give you the tools to feel better and to heal whatever you have gone through. I help people work through addiction recovery, anxiety, depression and difficult relationships. Having a strength-based approach that focuses on wellness and getting unstuck from repeating cycles is the approach I take. I work with anxiety, OCD, depression, addiction (alcohol, sexual, drug, spending, overeating, and work). I also work with chronic pain issues from a place of helping people express emotion. I do both in person and teleconferencing counseling at this time.
I understand addiction, depression and anxiety both personally and professionally.
It is tough times right now! People are struggling. I am here to give you the tools to feel better and to heal whatever you have gone through. I help people work through addiction recovery, anxiety, depression and difficult relationships. Having a strength-based approach that focuses on wellness and getting unstuck from repeating cycles is the approach I take. I work with anxiety, OCD, depression, addiction (alcohol, sexual, drug, spending, overeating, and work). I also work with chronic pain issues from a place of helping people express emotion. I do both in person and teleconferencing counseling at this time.
(425) 224-6725 View (425) 224-6725
Photo of Kody Evans, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Kody Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodinville, WA 98072
Specializing in Marriage and Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, and Premarital Counseling, I excel in Neuro-divergence, ADHD, Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Sleep, Sports Performance, Stress, Antisocial Personality, and Academic Underachievement.
Does this sound familiar? You feel like you aren’t enough. You’re exhausted from trying so damn hard. You’ve lost yourself in relationships or work. You doubt yourself and don’t feel confident. You have anxiety and endless worry. You feel stuck, not sure how to break free. You find yourself in unfulfilling relationships You work hard to avoid conflict and make others happy – yet it doesn’t seem to work. You’re tired of feeling this way! I believe that within you lies the strength to navigate through challenges and manifest the changes you seek. With the right guidance, As the saying goes, "The only way out is through."
Specializing in Marriage and Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, and Premarital Counseling, I excel in Neuro-divergence, ADHD, Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Sleep, Sports Performance, Stress, Antisocial Personality, and Academic Underachievement.
Does this sound familiar? You feel like you aren’t enough. You’re exhausted from trying so damn hard. You’ve lost yourself in relationships or work. You doubt yourself and don’t feel confident. You have anxiety and endless worry. You feel stuck, not sure how to break free. You find yourself in unfulfilling relationships You work hard to avoid conflict and make others happy – yet it doesn’t seem to work. You’re tired of feeling this way! I believe that within you lies the strength to navigate through challenges and manifest the changes you seek. With the right guidance, As the saying goes, "The only way out is through."
(425) 584-2880 View (425) 584-2880
Photo of Will Dowd Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Will Dowd Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
(206) 312-2326 View (206) 312-2326
Photo of Eric Herpin, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Eric Herpin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Eric. Depression and life’s stress can leave us feeling overwhelmed, hopeless and scared. Someone who cares about doing their best for their loved ones and tuning in to their needs can still find themselves feeling sad, overwhelmed or worn out. Sometimes, we work so hard trying to do the right thing we can almost forget who we are or why we are doing all this. If you are here, that is a sign you are open to make a change. You are primed to do something good for yourself. You are ready to care for the caregiver that works so hard for everyone else. Most of all, you are set to get onto a path you can feel proud of.
Hi, I’m Eric. Depression and life’s stress can leave us feeling overwhelmed, hopeless and scared. Someone who cares about doing their best for their loved ones and tuning in to their needs can still find themselves feeling sad, overwhelmed or worn out. Sometimes, we work so hard trying to do the right thing we can almost forget who we are or why we are doing all this. If you are here, that is a sign you are open to make a change. You are primed to do something good for yourself. You are ready to care for the caregiver that works so hard for everyone else. Most of all, you are set to get onto a path you can feel proud of.
(206) 201-1215 View (206) 201-1215
Photo of W Michael Rogers, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
W Michael Rogers
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Specialty areas include: Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR); posttraumatic stress, domestic & interpersonal violence; gender & sexual orientation issues; depression & anxiety; chemical addition; adjustment problems; grief & loss.
Welcome! A good fit is the most important thing in counseling. Positive and sustainable change can happen only when safety is experienced. I am a licensed psychologist and an authentic person. I strive to be present and to listen to you in session. Psychotherapy is developed individually in a safe, supportive, empowering way, in a collaborative environment, and at a pace that feels safe and supportive to you. Assessment services are also offered, including personality, brief cognitive, ADHD/ADD, and disability. Please review my website for additional information (www.drmichaelrogers.com).
Specialty areas include: Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR); posttraumatic stress, domestic & interpersonal violence; gender & sexual orientation issues; depression & anxiety; chemical addition; adjustment problems; grief & loss.
Welcome! A good fit is the most important thing in counseling. Positive and sustainable change can happen only when safety is experienced. I am a licensed psychologist and an authentic person. I strive to be present and to listen to you in session. Psychotherapy is developed individually in a safe, supportive, empowering way, in a collaborative environment, and at a pace that feels safe and supportive to you. Assessment services are also offered, including personality, brief cognitive, ADHD/ADD, and disability. Please review my website for additional information (www.drmichaelrogers.com).
(253) 352-4458 View (253) 352-4458
Photo of Janathan Grace, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Janathan Grace
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Silverdale, WA 98383
Life is painful. You may feel lost or trapped, overwhelmed or numb, fearful or broken. You need someone to hear and understand you, to support you and help you find a way forward out of anger, depression, anxiety, addiction, or grief. I want to provide a place where you can feel safe, grounded, valued, and respected so that you can face with courage whatever blocks you from discovering your true and unique beauty. I would be honored to join you in this important and brave work, using my expertise and your honesty and commitment. A major part of my work is also helping couples find better understanding and mutual support.
Life is painful. You may feel lost or trapped, overwhelmed or numb, fearful or broken. You need someone to hear and understand you, to support you and help you find a way forward out of anger, depression, anxiety, addiction, or grief. I want to provide a place where you can feel safe, grounded, valued, and respected so that you can face with courage whatever blocks you from discovering your true and unique beauty. I would be honored to join you in this important and brave work, using my expertise and your honesty and commitment. A major part of my work is also helping couples find better understanding and mutual support.
(206) 279-3530 View (206) 279-3530
Photo of Mareon Vincent Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Mareon Vincent Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I am so excited to provide support and encouragement with you in whatever stage of your life journey you are on. ​As a therapist I work with individuals, couples and families. My specialties consists of clients with child welfare, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, trauma whether past or current, life stress, work stress and relationship issues. The population I serve varies from ages 6 up to the geriatric population. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, “talk therapy”, motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, strength-based therapy and group therapy.
I am so excited to provide support and encouragement with you in whatever stage of your life journey you are on. ​As a therapist I work with individuals, couples and families. My specialties consists of clients with child welfare, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, trauma whether past or current, life stress, work stress and relationship issues. The population I serve varies from ages 6 up to the geriatric population. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, “talk therapy”, motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, strength-based therapy and group therapy.
(425) 272-6672 View (425) 272-6672
Photo of Jarred Lathrop-Weber, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Jarred Lathrop-Weber
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Welcome everyone! I work with all adults and adolescents and specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ folks. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, physical & emotional abuse, identity development, internalized oppression (of all forms), substance abuse and stress management. I am attuned to how sensitive our social identities contribute to how we feel, and I believe we all have a unique and personal story to tell. It is my role to bring hope, compassion, respect & knowledge to our time together.
Welcome everyone! I work with all adults and adolescents and specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ folks. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, physical & emotional abuse, identity development, internalized oppression (of all forms), substance abuse and stress management. I am attuned to how sensitive our social identities contribute to how we feel, and I believe we all have a unique and personal story to tell. It is my role to bring hope, compassion, respect & knowledge to our time together.
(206) 312-2567 View (206) 312-2567
Photo of Gregory Robert Rolnick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Gregory Robert Rolnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
Waitlist for new clients
What kind of life do you want? Is it important to have truthful and clear communication, loving relationships, and successful work? Whatever your traumas, losses, and fears have been, there are ways to work through and let go of the past, enjoy the present, and create hope for the future. Skills are available to handle grief, anger, depression, guilt, procrastination, and resentment while maintaining the connection to those we care for and love. Good self-esteem is produced when through positive intention and careful attention we meet our challenges and difficulties to the best of our ability and live a meaningful life.
What kind of life do you want? Is it important to have truthful and clear communication, loving relationships, and successful work? Whatever your traumas, losses, and fears have been, there are ways to work through and let go of the past, enjoy the present, and create hope for the future. Skills are available to handle grief, anger, depression, guilt, procrastination, and resentment while maintaining the connection to those we care for and love. Good self-esteem is produced when through positive intention and careful attention we meet our challenges and difficulties to the best of our ability and live a meaningful life.
(206) 734-3905 View (206) 734-3905
Photo of Bonner Dobbs, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Bonner Dobbs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98021
I have experience treating a wide range of difficulties including but not limited to depression, trauma, anxiety and relational difficulties.
I believe, and the research clearly indicates, that the bond you form with your therapist is the biggest predictor of positive outcomes. I therefore place a high emphasis on establishing a warm, safe environment for our relationship to grow. I like to understand therapy as a shared endeavor at pattern finding. If we can understand the personal and interpersonal patterns that contribute to your difficulties, we can address the root causes of those challenges and open up new ways of experiencing yourself and others.
I have experience treating a wide range of difficulties including but not limited to depression, trauma, anxiety and relational difficulties.
I believe, and the research clearly indicates, that the bond you form with your therapist is the biggest predictor of positive outcomes. I therefore place a high emphasis on establishing a warm, safe environment for our relationship to grow. I like to understand therapy as a shared endeavor at pattern finding. If we can understand the personal and interpersonal patterns that contribute to your difficulties, we can address the root causes of those challenges and open up new ways of experiencing yourself and others.
(425) 587-8513 View (425) 587-8513
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.