Depression Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Yu-An Wang, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Yu-An Wang
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I am a clinician focused on both deep emotions and practical coping. My therapy style is to collaborate with Clients to find out what works for you the best. It usually arises naturally from our body as body is the container for whatever we've been through. I believe psychotherapy can foster our personal growth and empower us to reclaim our capability to nurture and take care ourselves. I am specialized to work on perfectionism, professionalism, depression, anxiety, panic attack, trauma, stress, autistic spectrum, emotional regulation, relationship, family of origin, and cultural/racial issues.
I am a clinician focused on both deep emotions and practical coping. My therapy style is to collaborate with Clients to find out what works for you the best. It usually arises naturally from our body as body is the container for whatever we've been through. I believe psychotherapy can foster our personal growth and empower us to reclaim our capability to nurture and take care ourselves. I am specialized to work on perfectionism, professionalism, depression, anxiety, panic attack, trauma, stress, autistic spectrum, emotional regulation, relationship, family of origin, and cultural/racial issues.
(425) 409-5873 View (425) 409-5873
Photo of Ugbad D Hassan - Soulful Journey Therapy, PLLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Soulful Journey Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
We often think we are alone, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or even depressed, but we are not alone. Many people experience mental health stressors. Mental health is a state of well-being in which individuals understand their abilities, cope with life's everyday stresses, work productively and abundantly, and contribute to their community. At Soulful Journey Therapy, we are here to help. We aim to provide a safe and therapeutic place to process your emotions, mindfulness stress reduction, and cognitive-behavioral and existential theories.
We often think we are alone, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or even depressed, but we are not alone. Many people experience mental health stressors. Mental health is a state of well-being in which individuals understand their abilities, cope with life's everyday stresses, work productively and abundantly, and contribute to their community. At Soulful Journey Therapy, we are here to help. We aim to provide a safe and therapeutic place to process your emotions, mindfulness stress reduction, and cognitive-behavioral and existential theories.
(206) 966-4168 View (206) 966-4168
Photo of Riley Paterson, MA, MHP, LMHC, Counselor
Riley Paterson
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals who are healing from past traumas; who are looking to recover a sense of wholeness in the face of depression and demoralization; and those working to get a handle on anxiety.
There are so many ways that life can be difficult and so many paths for healing to take. My priority is to be present for you in the unique difficulties of your unique situation. Together we can create a safe, warm, and open environment to work through trauma, depression, anxiety, and the myriad pains that we all encounter. I strive to be warm, friendly, playful, direct, and conversational. I draw from a variety of perspectives ranging from the humanistic to the somatic and neuroscientific. But these various perspectives will always be used in the service of your particular situation and needs.
I work with individuals who are healing from past traumas; who are looking to recover a sense of wholeness in the face of depression and demoralization; and those working to get a handle on anxiety.
There are so many ways that life can be difficult and so many paths for healing to take. My priority is to be present for you in the unique difficulties of your unique situation. Together we can create a safe, warm, and open environment to work through trauma, depression, anxiety, and the myriad pains that we all encounter. I strive to be warm, friendly, playful, direct, and conversational. I draw from a variety of perspectives ranging from the humanistic to the somatic and neuroscientific. But these various perspectives will always be used in the service of your particular situation and needs.
(206) 590-7655 x31 View (206) 590-7655 x31
Photo of Anthony Mucci, LMHC, Counselor
Anthony Mucci
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/DBT/Existential therapy.
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/DBT/Existential therapy.
(509) 581-4282 View (509) 581-4282
Photo of Nancy Schub, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Schub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I work with individuals/families experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship conflicts, parenting challenges, trauma, grief, and adverse effects of childhood.
Many of us feel unprepared to deal with the stressors, transitions and difficulties that occur throughout our lives. I have many years of experience helping people traverse these issues and develop the tools to cope and to thrive in the face of these challenges. I will work with you to examine the underlying issues that have led you to therapy and support your efforts to make meaningful changes in your life. I offer a warm, safe and non-judgmental environment in which you can explore your thoughts and feelings, while helping you push toward a deeper understanding of the patterns driving your behaviors, choices and relationships.
I work with individuals/families experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship conflicts, parenting challenges, trauma, grief, and adverse effects of childhood.
Many of us feel unprepared to deal with the stressors, transitions and difficulties that occur throughout our lives. I have many years of experience helping people traverse these issues and develop the tools to cope and to thrive in the face of these challenges. I will work with you to examine the underlying issues that have led you to therapy and support your efforts to make meaningful changes in your life. I offer a warm, safe and non-judgmental environment in which you can explore your thoughts and feelings, while helping you push toward a deeper understanding of the patterns driving your behaviors, choices and relationships.
(206) 202-2015 View (206) 202-2015
Photo of Paige Jones, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Paige Jones
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
You may be seeking change, healing, or understanding as you exist in the relationships and situations around you. Whatever your reasons may be, my hope is to provide a safe space for transformation to occur. I work within the context of relationship, believing they are what shape us, harm us, and ultimately heal us. Therefore we will work together as we explore opportunities for you to step further into your own voice and longings, finding freedom from anxiety, stress, depression, and fear. Making the decision to enter therapy is admirable. I look forward to meeting you wherever you may be.
You may be seeking change, healing, or understanding as you exist in the relationships and situations around you. Whatever your reasons may be, my hope is to provide a safe space for transformation to occur. I work within the context of relationship, believing they are what shape us, harm us, and ultimately heal us. Therefore we will work together as we explore opportunities for you to step further into your own voice and longings, finding freedom from anxiety, stress, depression, and fear. Making the decision to enter therapy is admirable. I look forward to meeting you wherever you may be.
View
Photo of Alicia Eddy, MA, EdM, LMHC, Counselor
Alicia Eddy
Counselor, MA, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sexual/physical trauma (including domestic violence), PTSD and family conflict.
Are you looking for a safe, nonjudgmental haven to explore what might be preventing you from living a fulfilling life? May it be depression, anxiety, stress, family/relationship issues, when life is unbalanced it can seem overwhelming. I will embrace your unique background and qualities to provide support and guidance through periods of stress, searching, or imbalance. I believe that forming a trusting relationship with each client is the foundation for personal growth. We will work as a team to help you reach your personal goals and to overcome any obstacles along the way.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sexual/physical trauma (including domestic violence), PTSD and family conflict.
Are you looking for a safe, nonjudgmental haven to explore what might be preventing you from living a fulfilling life? May it be depression, anxiety, stress, family/relationship issues, when life is unbalanced it can seem overwhelming. I will embrace your unique background and qualities to provide support and guidance through periods of stress, searching, or imbalance. I believe that forming a trusting relationship with each client is the foundation for personal growth. We will work as a team to help you reach your personal goals and to overcome any obstacles along the way.
(206) 208-6736 View (206) 208-6736
Photo of Stephanie Gray, MSW, LICSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and issues affecting female-identifying clients.
I am known for my unapologetically fierce and compassionate anti-stigma approach and take pride in my east coast empathy, humor, and drive. I have worked in Washington on the front lines in mental health throughout the pandemic. I’m thrilled to incorporate my west coast love of the great outdoors, inclusivity, mindfulness, and culture into my practice for a well-rounded and empowering client experience. I deeply believe in the power of therapy, vulnerability, and validation. I provide safe space where you may speak your truth without fear, expect to be truly heard and seen, and know that you are valued.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and issues affecting female-identifying clients.
I am known for my unapologetically fierce and compassionate anti-stigma approach and take pride in my east coast empathy, humor, and drive. I have worked in Washington on the front lines in mental health throughout the pandemic. I’m thrilled to incorporate my west coast love of the great outdoors, inclusivity, mindfulness, and culture into my practice for a well-rounded and empowering client experience. I deeply believe in the power of therapy, vulnerability, and validation. I provide safe space where you may speak your truth without fear, expect to be truly heard and seen, and know that you are valued.
(206) 278-3324 View (206) 278-3324
Photo of H Neville, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
H Neville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Hello there! I am so glad you are taking steps towards bettering your wellbeing. Are you doing identity work? Do you struggle to say no or set boundaries? Are you dealing with a life transition that has you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe unsure about your gender identity? These issues can be overwhelming, but I am here to help support and empower you on this journey. I am enthusiastic about working with adults who are LGBTQ2IA+. I help support those dealing with a variety of life stresses like relationship trouble, people-pleasing, depression, anxiety, or trauma.
Hello there! I am so glad you are taking steps towards bettering your wellbeing. Are you doing identity work? Do you struggle to say no or set boundaries? Are you dealing with a life transition that has you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe unsure about your gender identity? These issues can be overwhelming, but I am here to help support and empower you on this journey. I am enthusiastic about working with adults who are LGBTQ2IA+. I help support those dealing with a variety of life stresses like relationship trouble, people-pleasing, depression, anxiety, or trauma.
(425) 600-3084 View (425) 600-3084
Photo of Davis K Brimberg, PhD, Psychologist
Davis K Brimberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121
Areas of focus: Relationship (and dating) problems, workplace stress, depression, anxiety, breakups/divorce, issues related to sexual orientation and gender, fertility, public speaking, lack of confidence, low self-esteem, test anxiety, substance abuse, animal-related issues and helping clients recover from relationships with narcissists.
I help clients live more authentically and develop a greater love for themselves and others. My client-centered sessions are collaborative. Together, we help you gain insight, take action and achieve positive change. I trained at Harvard University (doctoral intern and postdoctoral fellow). In addition to my work with clients, I have taught for several universities such as UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and Pepperdine University.
Areas of focus: Relationship (and dating) problems, workplace stress, depression, anxiety, breakups/divorce, issues related to sexual orientation and gender, fertility, public speaking, lack of confidence, low self-esteem, test anxiety, substance abuse, animal-related issues and helping clients recover from relationships with narcissists.
I help clients live more authentically and develop a greater love for themselves and others. My client-centered sessions are collaborative. Together, we help you gain insight, take action and achieve positive change. I trained at Harvard University (doctoral intern and postdoctoral fellow). In addition to my work with clients, I have taught for several universities such as UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and Pepperdine University.
(206) 348-2257 View (206) 348-2257
Photo of Josie Boyden, LMHC
Josie Boyden
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Whether you're facing trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, I am here to provide you with the guidance and support you need to cope, to change, and ultimately to thrive. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in complex trauma recovery, anxiety management, depression, PTSD, and I’m a certified neurodivergent affirming therapist. My approach to therapy is gentle, intuitive, empathic, client-centered, and evidence-based. I work from a strong social justice and anti-oppression framework.
Whether you're facing trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, I am here to provide you with the guidance and support you need to cope, to change, and ultimately to thrive. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in complex trauma recovery, anxiety management, depression, PTSD, and I’m a certified neurodivergent affirming therapist. My approach to therapy is gentle, intuitive, empathic, client-centered, and evidence-based. I work from a strong social justice and anti-oppression framework.
(206) 531-2717 View (206) 531-2717
Photo of Matt Cox, MA, MFT, MDiv, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matt Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, MDiv, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
At one time or another, we all find ourselves stuck. We end up burdened by depression, loss, or anxiety. Our relationships become mired in conflict and disconnection. We feel the life we want is out of reach. As a therapist, my goal is to help you get unstuck and step into the life you want. I provide therapy to individuals and couples that is engaging, caring, practical, and applicable to your life and goals. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, and life transition issues. I also have training and experience supporting clients with issues related to spirituality or purpose.
At one time or another, we all find ourselves stuck. We end up burdened by depression, loss, or anxiety. Our relationships become mired in conflict and disconnection. We feel the life we want is out of reach. As a therapist, my goal is to help you get unstuck and step into the life you want. I provide therapy to individuals and couples that is engaging, caring, practical, and applicable to your life and goals. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, and life transition issues. I also have training and experience supporting clients with issues related to spirituality or purpose.
(206) 231-6862 View (206) 231-6862
Photo of Stephanie A. Geiger, MA, CN, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Stephanie A. Geiger
Counselor, MA, CN, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I have a Masters in Clinical Health Psychology and a Masters in Nutrition/Dietetics, which helps lend to a holistic approach to my work with clients. I commonly work with health behavioral change, anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, ADHD, and relationship change. My treatment approach utilizes a biopsychosocial lense in long-term therapy based in psychodynamic, strengths-based, and integrative work in overall health. I utilize coping skills from CBT, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness. I incorporated life-skills such a assertiveness, boundaries, and career.
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I have a Masters in Clinical Health Psychology and a Masters in Nutrition/Dietetics, which helps lend to a holistic approach to my work with clients. I commonly work with health behavioral change, anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, ADHD, and relationship change. My treatment approach utilizes a biopsychosocial lense in long-term therapy based in psychodynamic, strengths-based, and integrative work in overall health. I utilize coping skills from CBT, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness. I incorporated life-skills such a assertiveness, boundaries, and career.
View
Photo of Natalie Peters, PsyD, Psychologist
Natalie Peters
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I work with older adults (65+), adults, and teens (17+), and I treat depression, anxiety, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, and a broad range of adjustment and general life issues. While I take an integrative approach to therapy based on the needs of the individual, my passion lies with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, my primary treatment modality. In addition to my role as a clinician, I also serve as a Clinical Director (Seattle area) for LifeStance, helping to maintain quality of care and foster a strong clinical milieu via recruitment, retention, consultation, and culture.
I work with older adults (65+), adults, and teens (17+), and I treat depression, anxiety, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, and a broad range of adjustment and general life issues. While I take an integrative approach to therapy based on the needs of the individual, my passion lies with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, my primary treatment modality. In addition to my role as a clinician, I also serve as a Clinical Director (Seattle area) for LifeStance, helping to maintain quality of care and foster a strong clinical milieu via recruitment, retention, consultation, and culture.
(206) 312-7572 View (206) 312-7572
Photo of Maggie Goss, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Goss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
I love working with adults and older adults. I often work with people on anxiety, depression, trauma, and difficulty with life transitions. My approach is supportive, warm, and nonjudgmental. My theoretical orientation is eclectic, drawing on humanistic, existential, and narrative approaches as well as skills-based frameworks such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavior behavior therapy (DBT). I work with a feminist, social-justice focused, and antiracist lens to appreciate the ways in which people and their wellbeing are affected by systems of oppression and how this may challenge or connect us in therapy.
I love working with adults and older adults. I often work with people on anxiety, depression, trauma, and difficulty with life transitions. My approach is supportive, warm, and nonjudgmental. My theoretical orientation is eclectic, drawing on humanistic, existential, and narrative approaches as well as skills-based frameworks such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavior behavior therapy (DBT). I work with a feminist, social-justice focused, and antiracist lens to appreciate the ways in which people and their wellbeing are affected by systems of oppression and how this may challenge or connect us in therapy.
(206) 895-3104 View (206) 895-3104
Photo of George Ankuta, PhD, Psychologist
George Ankuta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy for anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
My approach involves meeting each individual person where they are when they start therapy and forming a warn collaborative relationship. I provide a safe and comfortable environment in which people can explore the concerns that brought them into psychotherapy. Relationships are complex and people often want to understand more about how they interact with others and evolve in a way that promotes having better relationships.
I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy for anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
My approach involves meeting each individual person where they are when they start therapy and forming a warn collaborative relationship. I provide a safe and comfortable environment in which people can explore the concerns that brought them into psychotherapy. Relationships are complex and people often want to understand more about how they interact with others and evolve in a way that promotes having better relationships.
(206) 558-9729 View (206) 558-9729
Photo of Larkita Demps, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Larkita Demps
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98106  (Online Only)
I am a trauma therapist who understands the stigmas surrounding mental health and how it often prevents individuals from seeking assistance. My goal is to provide a safe counseling space for you to filter through your journey while equipping you with support and resources to guide you on the path to overall wellness. I work with people facing challenges such as life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Therapy is not always easy, but healing is achievable through a non-judgmental and compassionate environment.
I am a trauma therapist who understands the stigmas surrounding mental health and how it often prevents individuals from seeking assistance. My goal is to provide a safe counseling space for you to filter through your journey while equipping you with support and resources to guide you on the path to overall wellness. I work with people facing challenges such as life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Therapy is not always easy, but healing is achievable through a non-judgmental and compassionate environment.
(206) 350-5301 View (206) 350-5301
Photo of Dave Parnes, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Parnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I offer psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to adults, children and teens. I am open to working with a range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, trauma and emotional regulation. I work with individuals seeking help with transient difficulties as well as those wanting to address more longstanding problems. My role as a therapist includes helping patients: deepen their awareness of their emotional lives; get in touch with aspects of themselves that they are out of touch with; foster the integration of varied aspects of themselves; establish and maintain healthy and satisfying relationships.
I offer psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to adults, children and teens. I am open to working with a range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, trauma and emotional regulation. I work with individuals seeking help with transient difficulties as well as those wanting to address more longstanding problems. My role as a therapist includes helping patients: deepen their awareness of their emotional lives; get in touch with aspects of themselves that they are out of touch with; foster the integration of varied aspects of themselves; establish and maintain healthy and satisfying relationships.
(206) 922-4254 View (206) 922-4254
Photo of Mike Krepick, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Krepick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
I counsel people who strive to excel and do good in the world. They often start therapy during transitions, needing to recalibrate old ways of thinking and acting to feel and function better. Some work in stressful careers and struggle with mood, motivation, attention, and work-life balance. Some experience social anxiety, avoidance, isolation, conflict, or depression. Some suffer with intrusive thoughts, avoidance, “stuck” thoughts, and distress associated with trauma. Some express systemic, existential, and spiritual concerns for the world. Some are young-adult or middle-aged men striving to adapt and grow through life’s stages.
I counsel people who strive to excel and do good in the world. They often start therapy during transitions, needing to recalibrate old ways of thinking and acting to feel and function better. Some work in stressful careers and struggle with mood, motivation, attention, and work-life balance. Some experience social anxiety, avoidance, isolation, conflict, or depression. Some suffer with intrusive thoughts, avoidance, “stuck” thoughts, and distress associated with trauma. Some express systemic, existential, and spiritual concerns for the world. Some are young-adult or middle-aged men striving to adapt and grow through life’s stages.
(206) 339-7830 View (206) 339-7830
Photo of Sandra Hong, MACP, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Sandra Hong
Counselor, MACP, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
My practice is catered to promoting the mental health of adolescents and adults. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, interpersonal issues, and self-esteem. My goal is to provide a safe place for individuals to share their stories, provide coping strategies and perspective, and empower individuals to make changes according to their goals and values. I am a female Christian therapist with experience in both faith-based and traditional counseling. It is a passion of mine to integrate faith into our work together. I am happy to base my care on your preferences and will work with what is comfortable for you.
My practice is catered to promoting the mental health of adolescents and adults. My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, interpersonal issues, and self-esteem. My goal is to provide a safe place for individuals to share their stories, provide coping strategies and perspective, and empower individuals to make changes according to their goals and values. I am a female Christian therapist with experience in both faith-based and traditional counseling. It is a passion of mine to integrate faith into our work together. I am happy to base my care on your preferences and will work with what is comfortable for you.
(425) 399-8012 View (425) 399-8012
1
...
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.