Depression Therapists in Enatai, Bellevue, WA

Photo of Matthew J Bennett, Psychologist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Matthew J Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
(425) 374-4661 View (425) 374-4661
Photo of Brad Mullen, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Brad Mullen
Counselor, LMHCA , MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
I understand the profound impact that anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideations can have on one's life, and the tremendous strength required to seek help.
As a black therapist, one of my key areas of focus is the intersectionality of mental health and race. People of color often face unique stressors and systemic barriers that can make mental health challenges much more prevalent. The stigma associated with seeking therapy within many communities of color can make it even more difficult to reach out for help. Consequently, I am dedicated to destigmatizing mental health conversations within these communities and ensuring culturally competent care for my clients
I understand the profound impact that anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideations can have on one's life, and the tremendous strength required to seek help.
As a black therapist, one of my key areas of focus is the intersectionality of mental health and race. People of color often face unique stressors and systemic barriers that can make mental health challenges much more prevalent. The stigma associated with seeking therapy within many communities of color can make it even more difficult to reach out for help. Consequently, I am dedicated to destigmatizing mental health conversations within these communities and ensuring culturally competent care for my clients
(206) 202-8031 View (206) 202-8031
Photo of Rachel Newman Glick, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Rachel Newman Glick
Counselor, MA, MRP, LMHC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
All experiences can be valuable and help you grow more caring and loving rather than anxious, resentful or depressed.
People often say (and studies show) the most healing aspect of therapy is feeling heard and understood by the therapist. I work with adults and teens seeking support, clarity, calm, and insight navigating the stresses, fears, and uncertainty of life. In sessions clients often say they feel understood and more clear about how to proceed. My intent is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space for you to process what is going right and what areas you need to change or see things differently in your life. Therapy with me is insightful, mindfulness-based, and helps you move forward in your life.
All experiences can be valuable and help you grow more caring and loving rather than anxious, resentful or depressed.
People often say (and studies show) the most healing aspect of therapy is feeling heard and understood by the therapist. I work with adults and teens seeking support, clarity, calm, and insight navigating the stresses, fears, and uncertainty of life. In sessions clients often say they feel understood and more clear about how to proceed. My intent is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space for you to process what is going right and what areas you need to change or see things differently in your life. Therapy with me is insightful, mindfulness-based, and helps you move forward in your life.
(206) 752-4815 View (206) 752-4815
Photo of Alexandra Grigore, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Alexandra Grigore
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
I have a specialty in working with eating disorders and disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and tendencies of overcontrol.
Unhelpful thoughts and behaviors surrounding food and body image are hard. They can begin to control our lives, affecting our relationships with others and our relationship with ourselves. I work with clients to explore how trauma might influence their self-concept, the ways they experience and relate to their body and to food, and the ways they navigate this world. I help individuals explore, reframe and unlearn unhelpful messaging they may have received from systemic influences. I work with clients in their journeys of attuning to their body, to their relationship with food, to their values and to their most authentic self.
I have a specialty in working with eating disorders and disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and tendencies of overcontrol.
Unhelpful thoughts and behaviors surrounding food and body image are hard. They can begin to control our lives, affecting our relationships with others and our relationship with ourselves. I work with clients to explore how trauma might influence their self-concept, the ways they experience and relate to their body and to food, and the ways they navigate this world. I help individuals explore, reframe and unlearn unhelpful messaging they may have received from systemic influences. I work with clients in their journeys of attuning to their body, to their relationship with food, to their values and to their most authentic self.
(206) 944-6720 View (206) 944-6720
Photo of Constance Kehrer, Psychologist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Constance Kehrer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychologist in the State of Washington, I offer psychotherapy services to adult clients from diverse backgrounds struggling with a variety of issues. My specialty areas of interest include depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and difficult life transitions. I particularly enjoy working with older individuals who may be struggling with the challenges that later life can bring.
As a licensed psychologist in the State of Washington, I offer psychotherapy services to adult clients from diverse backgrounds struggling with a variety of issues. My specialty areas of interest include depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and difficult life transitions. I particularly enjoy working with older individuals who may be struggling with the challenges that later life can bring.
(425) 301-8832 View (425) 301-8832
Photo of Lisa Emily Theofelis, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Lisa Emily Theofelis
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, NBCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Offering hybrid IN- PERSON/ VIRTUAL. I work with clients experiencing, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating and depression. RO-DBT is a proven framework for addressing these challenges and more (eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, perfectionism, self harm). In addition to RO-DBT, I work with adult couples using the Gottman Method. Other areas of work include, divorce, teen + adult grief/loss, and teen survivors of sexual assault. As a bi-racial counselor, I have a special lens of working with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Also offering skills classes for teens with eating disorders.
Offering hybrid IN- PERSON/ VIRTUAL. I work with clients experiencing, mood disorders, anxiety, disordered eating and depression. RO-DBT is a proven framework for addressing these challenges and more (eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, perfectionism, self harm). In addition to RO-DBT, I work with adult couples using the Gottman Method. Other areas of work include, divorce, teen + adult grief/loss, and teen survivors of sexual assault. As a bi-racial counselor, I have a special lens of working with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Also offering skills classes for teens with eating disorders.
(206) 741-0740 View (206) 741-0740
Photo of Jonathan Montoya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Jonathan Montoya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
Receiving clients struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, College/Graduate School Issues, Life transitions, Self-esteem issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Professional/Career Issues, Stress Management, Spirituality, Grief and loss, Other Issues.
I provide a strength-based, trauma informed approach to healing the mind, body and soul. My name is Jonathan Montoya, LSWAIC. I work hand in hand with my clients to set tangible goals specific to the client’s needs to better their situation. These skills can then be transferred to everyday life situations that can be practiced. Life is difficult and we all need help at some point. Working through it with someone trustworthy is just the first step in creating a better you. If you have any questions about care and availabilities, feel free to email me.
Receiving clients struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, College/Graduate School Issues, Life transitions, Self-esteem issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Professional/Career Issues, Stress Management, Spirituality, Grief and loss, Other Issues.
I provide a strength-based, trauma informed approach to healing the mind, body and soul. My name is Jonathan Montoya, LSWAIC. I work hand in hand with my clients to set tangible goals specific to the client’s needs to better their situation. These skills can then be transferred to everyday life situations that can be practiced. Life is difficult and we all need help at some point. Working through it with someone trustworthy is just the first step in creating a better you. If you have any questions about care and availabilities, feel free to email me.
(425) 600-7126 View (425) 600-7126
Photo of Esther Karson, Psychologist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Esther Karson
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA, BCPsa
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Emotional pain can feel awkward and difficult to express. I know how hard it can be to make that first move and turn to someone for help with anxiety, depression, panic,trauma, self-loathing, or concerns about relationships with important people in your life. I use an insight-oriented approach to help my patients make meaning of their feelings and current behavior in light of both their chorus of internal voices and their actual psychological histories.When a patient becomes aware of 'the past operating in the present', a space begins to open up in their minds for making different choices.
Emotional pain can feel awkward and difficult to express. I know how hard it can be to make that first move and turn to someone for help with anxiety, depression, panic,trauma, self-loathing, or concerns about relationships with important people in your life. I use an insight-oriented approach to help my patients make meaning of their feelings and current behavior in light of both their chorus of internal voices and their actual psychological histories.When a patient becomes aware of 'the past operating in the present', a space begins to open up in their minds for making different choices.
(425) 954-7838 View (425) 954-7838
Photo of Tammette Chitwood, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Tammette Chitwood
Counselor, LMCHA
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with neurodivergent populations, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, and families/couples therapy.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent populations, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, and families/couples therapy.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
(206) 759-8035 View (206) 759-8035
Photo of Jessica L Miller, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Jessica L Miller
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Therapy exists not simply as a way to soothe and deal with what is bringing us in; dysfunctional relationships, anxiety or depression.
St Augustine once wrote “People travel to wonder at the height of the mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars; and they pass by themselves without wondering.” Life asks a lot today. Our children need help with homework. Our jobs need us to produce more, our parents need us as age diminishes their abilities. After everything, one is left to wonder not at themselves, but at where all the time went?
Therapy exists not simply as a way to soothe and deal with what is bringing us in; dysfunctional relationships, anxiety or depression.
St Augustine once wrote “People travel to wonder at the height of the mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars; and they pass by themselves without wondering.” Life asks a lot today. Our children need help with homework. Our jobs need us to produce more, our parents need us as age diminishes their abilities. After everything, one is left to wonder not at themselves, but at where all the time went?
(425) 598-0231 View (425) 598-0231
Photo of Amy Coffman, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Amy Coffman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, life transitions, and/or self-identity. I work with clients who struggle with overcontrolled coping, which includes perfectionism, rigid thinking, low emotional expression and emotional loneliness. I work with clients who struggle with undercontrol coping, which includes impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges.
I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, life transitions, and/or self-identity. I work with clients who struggle with overcontrolled coping, which includes perfectionism, rigid thinking, low emotional expression and emotional loneliness. I work with clients who struggle with undercontrol coping, which includes impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges.
(206) 578-3843 View (206) 578-3843
Photo of Jason E Dodd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Jason E Dodd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
*CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a former domestic violence advocate, I specialize in providing evidence-based psychotherapy and advocacy-based counseling for survivors of relationship abuse and other traumatic experiences. As a general practitioner, I also help with issues ranging from self-image, depression, and grief, to social and general anxiety, OCD, family conflict and divorce, religious shunning / transitions, adolescent and adult giftedness, nontraditional relationships, and matters of sexual orientation and gender identity (LGBTQ/non-binary affirming).
*CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a former domestic violence advocate, I specialize in providing evidence-based psychotherapy and advocacy-based counseling for survivors of relationship abuse and other traumatic experiences. As a general practitioner, I also help with issues ranging from self-image, depression, and grief, to social and general anxiety, OCD, family conflict and divorce, religious shunning / transitions, adolescent and adult giftedness, nontraditional relationships, and matters of sexual orientation and gender identity (LGBTQ/non-binary affirming).
(425) 276-7262 View (425) 276-7262
Photo of Bellevue Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Bellevue Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
We assist in forgiveness, enhancing emotional connection, and addressing anxiety and depression resulting from lost connection.
Is your partnership suffering? Do you feel like your losing connection to the person you once fell in love with? Couples counseling can help you teach communication skills that move couples towards understanding and away from demon dialogues. The truth is your relationships matter and the problems are complex. We can work together to help discover the softer emotions that run the show. Let's focus on how to bring down barriers and open up windows. Don't let the past trauma keep you from living in your present. Now offering Telehealth options.
We assist in forgiveness, enhancing emotional connection, and addressing anxiety and depression resulting from lost connection.
Is your partnership suffering? Do you feel like your losing connection to the person you once fell in love with? Couples counseling can help you teach communication skills that move couples towards understanding and away from demon dialogues. The truth is your relationships matter and the problems are complex. We can work together to help discover the softer emotions that run the show. Let's focus on how to bring down barriers and open up windows. Don't let the past trauma keep you from living in your present. Now offering Telehealth options.
(425) 502-5469 View (425) 502-5469
Photo of Victoria D Wilging, Marriage & Family Therapist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Victoria D Wilging
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Since 2013, working extensively with trauma, depression, and anxiety.
It takes courage, strength, and commitment to want to improve your life. Sometimes life presents us with roadblocks, we get stuck in difficult situations, and struggle to overcome hardships. Those are the most important times to reach out for support. I partner with individuals, families and couples to help improve communication and increase the positivity and depth within relationships. I will work to align with your needs to help create a true sense of personal empowerment to overcome life’s difficulties.
Since 2013, working extensively with trauma, depression, and anxiety.
It takes courage, strength, and commitment to want to improve your life. Sometimes life presents us with roadblocks, we get stuck in difficult situations, and struggle to overcome hardships. Those are the most important times to reach out for support. I partner with individuals, families and couples to help improve communication and increase the positivity and depth within relationships. I will work to align with your needs to help create a true sense of personal empowerment to overcome life’s difficulties.
(425) 598-0637 View (425) 598-0637
Photo of Steven Kubacki, Psychologist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Steven Kubacki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
(206) 922-8133 View (206) 922-8133
Photo of Kasey Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Kasey Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a young adult or teen struggling with life transitions, self esteem, anxiety, or depression? Have you been experiencing stress, burnout, or overwhelm? During teen and young adult years, coping with emotions, relationships, and the pressures of daily life can be particularly challenging. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I support clients in navigating teen and young adult issues, while emphasizing mindfulness, connection, the creation of meaning, and holistic well-being. I help clients learn to balance self-compassion with goal-oriented change.
Are you a young adult or teen struggling with life transitions, self esteem, anxiety, or depression? Have you been experiencing stress, burnout, or overwhelm? During teen and young adult years, coping with emotions, relationships, and the pressures of daily life can be particularly challenging. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, I support clients in navigating teen and young adult issues, while emphasizing mindfulness, connection, the creation of meaning, and holistic well-being. I help clients learn to balance self-compassion with goal-oriented change.
(206) 593-4352 View (206) 593-4352
Photo of Mary Daly Erickson, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Mary Daly Erickson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
It is my privilege to witness my clients as they gain the skills to treat suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviors, extreme emotions, anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, perfectionism, inflexibility and loneliness. These skills ultimately lead to connection with themselves, their partners, spouses and others in their lives and help them build a life worth living.
It is my privilege to witness my clients as they gain the skills to treat suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviors, extreme emotions, anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, perfectionism, inflexibility and loneliness. These skills ultimately lead to connection with themselves, their partners, spouses and others in their lives and help them build a life worth living.
(206) 390-6998 View (206) 390-6998
Photo of Rebecca Liu, Counselor in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Rebecca Liu
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, dissatisfaction, feeling lost or trapped, despite doing your best? It’s painful and exhausting to feel inadequate at life. And it’s OK to not know what to do. Sometimes we just need professional help, and that’s what I’m here for.
Are you struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, dissatisfaction, feeling lost or trapped, despite doing your best? It’s painful and exhausting to feel inadequate at life. And it’s OK to not know what to do. Sometimes we just need professional help, and that’s what I’m here for.
(206) 222-1875 View (206) 222-1875
Photo of Grace Pyon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Grace Pyon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
My specialties include trauma, depression, anxiety; and managing stress and life transitions.
It takes strength, courage, and self-awareness to reach out to a stranger for support. I believe you are the expert in your own story, and you have the potential for your own healing and growth. In our collaborative work together, I will help you navigate challenges you are experiencing, and help you recognize your strengths and skills to empower yourself through your journey.
My specialties include trauma, depression, anxiety; and managing stress and life transitions.
It takes strength, courage, and self-awareness to reach out to a stranger for support. I believe you are the expert in your own story, and you have the potential for your own healing and growth. In our collaborative work together, I will help you navigate challenges you are experiencing, and help you recognize your strengths and skills to empower yourself through your journey.
(206) 208-2310 View (206) 208-2310
Photo of Michelle Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Enatai, Bellevue, WA
Michelle Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Enatai, Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
I provide support to clients with a variety of mental health concerns, including trauma, social justice & identity issues, attachment, anxiety & depression, relationship issues, women’s issues, self-esteem & self-harm.
The majority of my career has been spent working in an emergency department & inpatient hospital setting. As an outpatient therapist, I combine these skills with additional therapeutic interventions to define, build, and complete your treatment goals. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused approach & utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to best support the needs of my clients.
I provide support to clients with a variety of mental health concerns, including trauma, social justice & identity issues, attachment, anxiety & depression, relationship issues, women’s issues, self-esteem & self-harm.
The majority of my career has been spent working in an emergency department & inpatient hospital setting. As an outpatient therapist, I combine these skills with additional therapeutic interventions to define, build, and complete your treatment goals. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused approach & utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to best support the needs of my clients.
(206) 785-3205 View (206) 785-3205

See more therapy options for Enatai, Bellevue

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.