Depression Therapists in Lakewood, WA

Photo of Dr. Michael Gramlich, Psychologist in Lakewood, WA
Dr. Michael Gramlich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98498  (Online Only)
I have openings for new clients via telehealth. Struggling with painful memories of trauma (PTSD)? Exhausted from chronic insomnia or nightmares? Feeling defeated by panic attacks, excessive worrying, or avoidance of feared situations (anxiety)? Difficulties with feeling down, little enjoyment, or low motivation (depression)? Bothered by intense feelings, challenging life transitions, or stress? Looking to connect with others, healthy behaviors, or purpose? I am passionate to offer you evidence-based counseling to help you achieve your goals using the convenient access provided by online therapy.
I have openings for new clients via telehealth. Struggling with painful memories of trauma (PTSD)? Exhausted from chronic insomnia or nightmares? Feeling defeated by panic attacks, excessive worrying, or avoidance of feared situations (anxiety)? Difficulties with feeling down, little enjoyment, or low motivation (depression)? Bothered by intense feelings, challenging life transitions, or stress? Looking to connect with others, healthy behaviors, or purpose? I am passionate to offer you evidence-based counseling to help you achieve your goals using the convenient access provided by online therapy.
(253) 223-6954 View (253) 223-6954
Photo of Shannon Rawlings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Shannon Rawlings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98498  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, trauma, and behavioral issues.
I believe there are times in a person's life when they need a trustworthy ally who offers integrity, understanding, and nonjudgement. I believe this is also someone who can help another person explore the causes of his/her/their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and develop new ways of thinking, acting and feeling. I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families achieve these goals in an environment that emphasizes confidentiality, respect, trust, and compassion.
My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, trauma, and behavioral issues.
I believe there are times in a person's life when they need a trustworthy ally who offers integrity, understanding, and nonjudgement. I believe this is also someone who can help another person explore the causes of his/her/their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and develop new ways of thinking, acting and feeling. I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families achieve these goals in an environment that emphasizes confidentiality, respect, trust, and compassion.
(253) 461-6275 View (253) 461-6275
Photo of Percy L. Sturgis III, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Percy L. Sturgis III
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA, CANS-F
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, school challenges, confidence, loneliness, or even life stressors; therapy may be a beneficial avenue to explore. Nowadays, counseling is more normalized and many individuals are moving in the direction of seeking support as they are noticing the potential benefits of therapy. If you're interested in identifying a safe and confidential space to express your emotions, reveal new strengths, navigate life obstacles, strengthen relationships, and explore positive coping strategies; I am here to assist.
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, school challenges, confidence, loneliness, or even life stressors; therapy may be a beneficial avenue to explore. Nowadays, counseling is more normalized and many individuals are moving in the direction of seeking support as they are noticing the potential benefits of therapy. If you're interested in identifying a safe and confidential space to express your emotions, reveal new strengths, navigate life obstacles, strengthen relationships, and explore positive coping strategies; I am here to assist.
(253) 400-1913 View (253) 400-1913
Photo of Christian Rubio, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Christian Rubio
Counselor, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499
I primarily work with adults doing individual therapy, however, my work history includes working as a counselor for kids in an inpatient hospital setting, supporting adults as a crisis clinician, and leading groups that included art therapy, healing from depression, and managing anxiety.
I have years of experience in helping people improve their lives, reach their goals and find healing. I excel in rapport building and utilize person centered therapy to guide the therapeutic relationship.
I primarily work with adults doing individual therapy, however, my work history includes working as a counselor for kids in an inpatient hospital setting, supporting adults as a crisis clinician, and leading groups that included art therapy, healing from depression, and managing anxiety.
I have years of experience in helping people improve their lives, reach their goals and find healing. I excel in rapport building and utilize person centered therapy to guide the therapeutic relationship.
(253) 528-7415 View (253) 528-7415
Photo of Dr. John Conteh (Approved Clinical Supervisor), Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Dr. John Conteh (Approved Clinical Supervisor)
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, BC-TMH, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499  (Online Only)
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, career counseling, racial identity, and immigration concerns.
John Conteh, doing business as Zancteh Integrated Counseling, PLLC is currently accepting new adults and elderly clients for individual telehealth counseling. Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transition, career concerns, racial identity, and immigration concerns? Have you been trying to figure out how to get help in a safe and supportive environment? Are you looking for Clinical Supervision for Licensure?
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, career counseling, racial identity, and immigration concerns.
John Conteh, doing business as Zancteh Integrated Counseling, PLLC is currently accepting new adults and elderly clients for individual telehealth counseling. Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transition, career concerns, racial identity, and immigration concerns? Have you been trying to figure out how to get help in a safe and supportive environment? Are you looking for Clinical Supervision for Licensure?
(253) 528-7437 View (253) 528-7437
Photo of Trenton Williams, Psychologist in Lakewood, WA
Trenton Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499
His primary areas of specialty include ADHD, ADD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, and a wide range of life and adjustment issues.
Trenton Williams has been a member of the clinical staff at LifeStance (formerly Rainier Behavioral Health) since 1992. He graduated with honors in 1989 from the California School of Professional Psychology in San Diego with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. He completed a post-doctoral internship in 1992. His training is in adult and adolescent psychology, and he is also experienced in marital therapy. He has worked in a variety of roles such as crisis counselor, teaching assistant, and research assistant. He has been a dedicated psychologist since 1989.
His primary areas of specialty include ADHD, ADD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, and a wide range of life and adjustment issues.
Trenton Williams has been a member of the clinical staff at LifeStance (formerly Rainier Behavioral Health) since 1992. He graduated with honors in 1989 from the California School of Professional Psychology in San Diego with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. He completed a post-doctoral internship in 1992. His training is in adult and adolescent psychology, and he is also experienced in marital therapy. He has worked in a variety of roles such as crisis counselor, teaching assistant, and research assistant. He has been a dedicated psychologist since 1989.
(253) 352-3012 View (253) 352-3012
Photo of Lizzie Munday, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Lizzie Munday
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499
With a background working in schools as well as community mental health, I have experience working with children/adolescents, adults and families, helping to manage: depression, anxiety, mild to severe behavior and mental disabilities, grief and loss, LGBTQ issues, relationships, trauma, career and academic exploration and crisis stabilization.
Therapy and the process of change can be daunting but, YOU ARE WORTH IT! My focus and goal in my work with you is to help navigate through your personal process of growth and change. I use a strength based, client centered and cognitive/behavioral approach to help develop techniques and coping skills to get you to where you want to be to feel solace and peace in your life. The most important step in the process is establishing a client/therapist relationship based on mutual respect and integrity.
With a background working in schools as well as community mental health, I have experience working with children/adolescents, adults and families, helping to manage: depression, anxiety, mild to severe behavior and mental disabilities, grief and loss, LGBTQ issues, relationships, trauma, career and academic exploration and crisis stabilization.
Therapy and the process of change can be daunting but, YOU ARE WORTH IT! My focus and goal in my work with you is to help navigate through your personal process of growth and change. I use a strength based, client centered and cognitive/behavioral approach to help develop techniques and coping skills to get you to where you want to be to feel solace and peace in your life. The most important step in the process is establishing a client/therapist relationship based on mutual respect and integrity.
(253) 444-2946 View (253) 444-2946
Photo of Life Path Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Life Path Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98496
If you suffer from issues of depression, anxiety, life stress, relationship issues, or just need support for significant life changes, we can find ways for you to deal with those issues effectively.
Hello, I'm Shawn Berthel, (M.S., LCMHC). In my private practice, I believe you can be helped to make shifts in your behavior and thinking processes, to create awareness of your issues, and to change the areas you wish to correct. You will be encouraged to empower yourself, and become a partner in your own self-care. These changes may be slow or difficult at first. However, I know that you have the innate power to maximize your strengths and seek out necessary support, so you can move forward positively into a new life filled with opportunity.
If you suffer from issues of depression, anxiety, life stress, relationship issues, or just need support for significant life changes, we can find ways for you to deal with those issues effectively.
Hello, I'm Shawn Berthel, (M.S., LCMHC). In my private practice, I believe you can be helped to make shifts in your behavior and thinking processes, to create awareness of your issues, and to change the areas you wish to correct. You will be encouraged to empower yourself, and become a partner in your own self-care. These changes may be slow or difficult at first. However, I know that you have the innate power to maximize your strengths and seek out necessary support, so you can move forward positively into a new life filled with opportunity.
(253) 650-0418 View (253) 650-0418
Photo of Marilyn Boyle (Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy), Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Marilyn Boyle (Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy)
Counselor, MA, MTS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499  (Online Only)
You might be sad, depressed, stressed, anxious, scared, overwhelmed with it all. Maybe your relationship is hurting or you're feeling stuck in your life. Maybe you're dealing with a death loss or life transition. You don't have to go through your current life challenges alone. As a psychotherapist & grief coach for 38+ years, I've helped thousands of people move out of emotional pain and toward happier lives. If you're ready for growth and transformation on your journey toward wholeness, I can help. If you're curious and want to try something new, I can provide ketamine sessions to gently catalyze your process.
You might be sad, depressed, stressed, anxious, scared, overwhelmed with it all. Maybe your relationship is hurting or you're feeling stuck in your life. Maybe you're dealing with a death loss or life transition. You don't have to go through your current life challenges alone. As a psychotherapist & grief coach for 38+ years, I've helped thousands of people move out of emotional pain and toward happier lives. If you're ready for growth and transformation on your journey toward wholeness, I can help. If you're curious and want to try something new, I can provide ketamine sessions to gently catalyze your process.
(253) 656-0657 View (253) 656-0657
Photo of Janet G. Kurz, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Janet G. Kurz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are having difficulty enjoying their life, because of feeling depressed, or anxious, or persons who have been through trauma and keep having flashbacks that make them feel like they are experiencing the traumatic event again.
Symptoms of emotional distress, don't just come out of nowhere. As we go through life, our bodies alert us about whether to go towards something that seems safe, or away from something that seems dangerous. When there is no escape from the cause of sensations, as is the case in physical, emotional or sexual abuse, we learn learn ways avoid feeling the sensations in our body in order to protect ourselves. In order to heal, we need to be able to be in touch with our body sensations. They give us valuable information about safety. We can work together on helping you to feel safe and relaxed and to be optimistic about your future.
I work with clients who are having difficulty enjoying their life, because of feeling depressed, or anxious, or persons who have been through trauma and keep having flashbacks that make them feel like they are experiencing the traumatic event again.
Symptoms of emotional distress, don't just come out of nowhere. As we go through life, our bodies alert us about whether to go towards something that seems safe, or away from something that seems dangerous. When there is no escape from the cause of sensations, as is the case in physical, emotional or sexual abuse, we learn learn ways avoid feeling the sensations in our body in order to protect ourselves. In order to heal, we need to be able to be in touch with our body sensations. They give us valuable information about safety. We can work together on helping you to feel safe and relaxed and to be optimistic about your future.
(253) 214-3629 View (253) 214-3629
Photo of Jesalyn Kimura, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Jesalyn Kimura
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499
My practice areas include: individual, couple and relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, early life abuse and neglect, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, family issues and spiritual exploration.
Sometimes in life, we can feel lost, stuck or even desperate. We do the same things over and over again without finding any solutions to our problems. Life often becomes painful when our past experiences have no words to describe them or clarity to bring them to understanding. Using a variety of approaches my clients and I explore their current pain and concerns, while considering the picture of their past experience. With support and compassion we map out a plan to discover ways to become unstuck and move in new directions.
My practice areas include: individual, couple and relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, early life abuse and neglect, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, family issues and spiritual exploration.
Sometimes in life, we can feel lost, stuck or even desperate. We do the same things over and over again without finding any solutions to our problems. Life often becomes painful when our past experiences have no words to describe them or clarity to bring them to understanding. Using a variety of approaches my clients and I explore their current pain and concerns, while considering the picture of their past experience. With support and compassion we map out a plan to discover ways to become unstuck and move in new directions.
(253) 220-6990 View (253) 220-6990
Photo of Building Bridges Therapeutic Services, PLLC, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Building Bridges Therapeutic Services, PLLC
Counselor, PhD, LMFTA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98409  (Online Only)
My clients include those working through anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, stress, and anger.
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. I respond to emails within the initial 24 hrs. My therapeutic approach is centered around my belief that you deserve to be heard and understood. My passion is to empower and equip individuals and families experiencing invisible emotional wounds to heal themselves, build better relationships while strengthening connections and navigate through life challenges. You will discover your inner worth, love and acceptance. You have the power within yourself to do the work and awaken to your best-kept self! You are VALUABLE and deserve to have an opportunity to take care of your inner self.
My clients include those working through anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, stress, and anger.
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. I respond to emails within the initial 24 hrs. My therapeutic approach is centered around my belief that you deserve to be heard and understood. My passion is to empower and equip individuals and families experiencing invisible emotional wounds to heal themselves, build better relationships while strengthening connections and navigate through life challenges. You will discover your inner worth, love and acceptance. You have the power within yourself to do the work and awaken to your best-kept self! You are VALUABLE and deserve to have an opportunity to take care of your inner self.
(253) 242-2804 View (253) 242-2804
Photo of Ashaniece Anderson, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Ashaniece Anderson
Counselor, AAC, CPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98439
This is where I come in! I specialize in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, and fear.
Let's face it, life is hard, and it doesn't seem to be getting any easier. I noticed that most people just live their lives on a day-by-day basis and struggle with finding true meaning in their lives. This may be due to the internal struggles that we all face such as anxiety, depression, grief, fear, anger, and so many other issues. We may try to deal with our issues on our own, and sometimes this works for many of us. Yet, there are some issues that may seem tougher than others, which can weigh on our moods and negatively impact our relationships with others and ourselves. Seeking help is easier said than done for most.
This is where I come in! I specialize in addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, and fear.
Let's face it, life is hard, and it doesn't seem to be getting any easier. I noticed that most people just live their lives on a day-by-day basis and struggle with finding true meaning in their lives. This may be due to the internal struggles that we all face such as anxiety, depression, grief, fear, anger, and so many other issues. We may try to deal with our issues on our own, and sometimes this works for many of us. Yet, there are some issues that may seem tougher than others, which can weigh on our moods and negatively impact our relationships with others and ourselves. Seeking help is easier said than done for most.
(253) 893-6805 View (253) 893-6805
Photo of Krista Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Krista Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98498  (Online Only)
**Accepting new clients** Do you feel that you, or someone you know, are not living the most gratifying life? I work with both kids and adults on reaching their best potential. Whether working through trauma, depression, anxiety, adjusting, or discovering yourself, I would be happy to walk with you along the journey. I will collaborate with you to explore what you need. I have extensive experience working with trauma and LGBTQ+ related concerns, and enjoy researching them in my spare time. I work with individuals, relationship systems, and family systems.
**Accepting new clients** Do you feel that you, or someone you know, are not living the most gratifying life? I work with both kids and adults on reaching their best potential. Whether working through trauma, depression, anxiety, adjusting, or discovering yourself, I would be happy to walk with you along the journey. I will collaborate with you to explore what you need. I have extensive experience working with trauma and LGBTQ+ related concerns, and enjoy researching them in my spare time. I work with individuals, relationship systems, and family systems.
(253) 649-2915 View (253) 649-2915
Photo of Katelyn Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lakewood, WA
Katelyn Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98409
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with many areas including trauma work, symptoms of anxiety and depression, relational conflict and more.
Are you struggling with daily tasks? Do you want more out of your relationships? Does it feel as though your heart is heavy? Struggles like this can require a helping hand and therapy can be the step you need. Therapy has the potential to empower and guide growth to overcome the challenges that life brings. It has the ability to bridge tough conversations, acknowledge the impact that the greater society has on us and unpack the emotions that feel unexplainable. Soon that checklist can feel smaller, relationships feel more fulfilling and that weight a bit lighter.
I have experience with many areas including trauma work, symptoms of anxiety and depression, relational conflict and more.
Are you struggling with daily tasks? Do you want more out of your relationships? Does it feel as though your heart is heavy? Struggles like this can require a helping hand and therapy can be the step you need. Therapy has the potential to empower and guide growth to overcome the challenges that life brings. It has the ability to bridge tough conversations, acknowledge the impact that the greater society has on us and unpack the emotions that feel unexplainable. Soon that checklist can feel smaller, relationships feel more fulfilling and that weight a bit lighter.
(253) 319-3256 View (253) 319-3256
Photo of Samantha Robinson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lakewood, WA
Samantha Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98497
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My work involves helping people reconnect with their authentic selves. Years of prioritizing the needs of others is exhausting and can leave us unsure about what we want, need and even feel. Understanding the origins of these patterns is the first step toward releasing yourself and building the life you want.
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My work involves helping people reconnect with their authentic selves. Years of prioritizing the needs of others is exhausting and can leave us unsure about what we want, need and even feel. Understanding the origins of these patterns is the first step toward releasing yourself and building the life you want.
(253) 553-3696 View (253) 553-3696
Photo of Roxanne Cull, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Roxanne Cull
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499
Waitlist for new clients
Does your life or relationship need a major overhaul or maybe just a "tune up"? I can help you with either. Having successfully worked with a broad range of client issues from families in transition or conflict, to individuals with severe trauma and depression, I have been exposed to enough that nothing you tell me will shock me. I will not judge you. Often it is our unconscious patterns and life stories that influence the way we feel, think and behave. I can help you understand "why" so that you can change and feel better.... or perhaps gain the tools needed to ask someone else to change.
Does your life or relationship need a major overhaul or maybe just a "tune up"? I can help you with either. Having successfully worked with a broad range of client issues from families in transition or conflict, to individuals with severe trauma and depression, I have been exposed to enough that nothing you tell me will shock me. I will not judge you. Often it is our unconscious patterns and life stories that influence the way we feel, think and behave. I can help you understand "why" so that you can change and feel better.... or perhaps gain the tools needed to ask someone else to change.
(253) 292-9217 View (253) 292-9217
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Warwick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Jennifer Lynn Warwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499  (Online Only)
Please EMAIL for new appointments. I am a clinical social worker with a passion for helping clients tap into their inner strengths and learn skills to lead a healthy, empowered life. I have experience in the areas of self-esteem, depression/anxiety, and general life stress as well as supporting survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence. I use solution-focused, cognitive behavioral approaches that help clients build capacity to address life concerns in accessible, sustainable ways. I also incorporate somatic practices (yoga, breathwork, body awareness) into sessions to help support the holistic wellbeing of clients.
Please EMAIL for new appointments. I am a clinical social worker with a passion for helping clients tap into their inner strengths and learn skills to lead a healthy, empowered life. I have experience in the areas of self-esteem, depression/anxiety, and general life stress as well as supporting survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence. I use solution-focused, cognitive behavioral approaches that help clients build capacity to address life concerns in accessible, sustainable ways. I also incorporate somatic practices (yoga, breathwork, body awareness) into sessions to help support the holistic wellbeing of clients.
(253) 649-6711 View (253) 649-6711
Photo of Gentry Turk, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Gentry Turk
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499
Waitlist for new clients
At the rate our world is changing, we are all experiencing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual adjustments that are difficult to manage. At times, our bodies are the first to alert us that those changes are occurring. Our bodies give us signals that we are thriving and also when we are feeling anxious, stressed out, depressed and vulnerable. In the height of these circumstances, we are desperate for relief and answers. Therapy is just one avenue of experiencing hope and gaining reprieve from overwhelming feelings and emotions.
At the rate our world is changing, we are all experiencing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual adjustments that are difficult to manage. At times, our bodies are the first to alert us that those changes are occurring. Our bodies give us signals that we are thriving and also when we are feeling anxious, stressed out, depressed and vulnerable. In the height of these circumstances, we are desperate for relief and answers. Therapy is just one avenue of experiencing hope and gaining reprieve from overwhelming feelings and emotions.
(253) 215-8393 View (253) 215-8393
Photo of Jordan Zollinger, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Jordan Zollinger
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98499
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties.
I remember when I showed up to my first counseling appointment as a client. I was nervous, embarrassed, and feeling defeated. In that moment, my physical body carried those emotions in that it felt on edge, almost willing me to get up and leave the counseling center. I also remember the connection I made with my counselor during that first session, and how I knew that is what I needed for that season of life. I understand that for most clients, showing up to their first (or second, or fiftieth..) counseling appointment is terrifying. For many, it feels like they don’t know where else to go, what to do, or who to turn to.
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties.
I remember when I showed up to my first counseling appointment as a client. I was nervous, embarrassed, and feeling defeated. In that moment, my physical body carried those emotions in that it felt on edge, almost willing me to get up and leave the counseling center. I also remember the connection I made with my counselor during that first session, and how I knew that is what I needed for that season of life. I understand that for most clients, showing up to their first (or second, or fiftieth..) counseling appointment is terrifying. For many, it feels like they don’t know where else to go, what to do, or who to turn to.
(253) 544-6209 View (253) 544-6209
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.