Photo of Scott Marquardt, Counselor in Madison, WI
Scott Marquardt
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
Scott Marquardt enjoys helping adults and teens of all cultures and identities work through depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, work conflict, leadership struggles and other challenges. His formal training includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing and mindfulness techniques. However, he truly believes in a person-centered eclectic approach to give each client what they uniquely need to grow into their best selves. Scott began life as a mental health counselor after retiring from a long and fulfilling career in public safety.
Scott Marquardt enjoys helping adults and teens of all cultures and identities work through depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, work conflict, leadership struggles and other challenges. His formal training includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing and mindfulness techniques. However, he truly believes in a person-centered eclectic approach to give each client what they uniquely need to grow into their best selves. Scott began life as a mental health counselor after retiring from a long and fulfilling career in public safety.
(608) 527-0541 View (608) 527-0541
Photo of Tom McBride, Marriage & Family Therapist in Madison, WI
Tom McBride
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
He is particularly well-suited to working with men, individuals experiencing anxiety and/or depression, couples, and families.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Tom focuses on how family systems function and shape us. This allows clients to explore concerns on an individual level as well as discover how interactions with others may be affecting them. With a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Bachelor's in Art Therapy from Edgewood College in Madison, WI, he is able to provide clients with a wide range of therapeutic tools from the traditional to the creative. He is dedicated to client care and has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Tom has spent several years working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
He is particularly well-suited to working with men, individuals experiencing anxiety and/or depression, couples, and families.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Tom focuses on how family systems function and shape us. This allows clients to explore concerns on an individual level as well as discover how interactions with others may be affecting them. With a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Bachelor's in Art Therapy from Edgewood College in Madison, WI, he is able to provide clients with a wide range of therapeutic tools from the traditional to the creative. He is dedicated to client care and has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Tom has spent several years working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
(608) 909-6584 View (608) 909-6584
Photo of Donald L Schade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Donald L Schade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703  (Online Only)
Donnie’s clinical expertise is in working with adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals on topics related to addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression.
Donnie utilizes a solution-focused and client-centered approach that supports clients in setting and reaching personalized, obtainable goals that improve their overall wellbeing. He also draws on evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to teach clients coping skills and help them develop a better understanding of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With almost ten years of clinical experience, Donnie has abundant experience integrating these therapy modalities in a manner best suited to meet the needs of each client.
Donnie’s clinical expertise is in working with adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals on topics related to addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression.
Donnie utilizes a solution-focused and client-centered approach that supports clients in setting and reaching personalized, obtainable goals that improve their overall wellbeing. He also draws on evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to teach clients coping skills and help them develop a better understanding of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With almost ten years of clinical experience, Donnie has abundant experience integrating these therapy modalities in a manner best suited to meet the needs of each client.
(608) 200-5208 View (608) 200-5208
Photo of David C Lee, Psychologist in Madison, WI
David C Lee
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Your best journeys can begin here. I provide effective, focused, and practical guidance in psychotherapy to help attain goals, self-improvement, resolve conflicts, and deal with a variety of life issues ranging from depression, anxiety, phobias and sexual identity to relationships (couples, marriage), career, and life transitions. I also provide dispute mediation services. I have a personable, affirming, and mentoring therapy style and an appreciation for individual experiences, styles and needs. My honest, direct, and warm approach also facilitates trusting and effective therapeutic relationships. I provide EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral, and various Client-Centered methods. West-side Madison location.
Your best journeys can begin here. I provide effective, focused, and practical guidance in psychotherapy to help attain goals, self-improvement, resolve conflicts, and deal with a variety of life issues ranging from depression, anxiety, phobias and sexual identity to relationships (couples, marriage), career, and life transitions. I also provide dispute mediation services. I have a personable, affirming, and mentoring therapy style and an appreciation for individual experiences, styles and needs. My honest, direct, and warm approach also facilitates trusting and effective therapeutic relationships. I provide EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral, and various Client-Centered methods. West-side Madison location.
(608) 291-5003 View (608) 291-5003
Photo of Lucas Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Lucas Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SUD, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703
Waitlist for new clients
I work with many young adults (university students and young professionals) and with people from across the lifespan. I have experience with both mental health needs (mostly life transitions, depression, and anxiety) and with folks wanting to change their relationship with substance use (who are at a point in their recovery process where outpatient therapy can meet their needs). Feel free to learn more at moorepsychotherapy.org
I work with many young adults (university students and young professionals) and with people from across the lifespan. I have experience with both mental health needs (mostly life transitions, depression, and anxiety) and with folks wanting to change their relationship with substance use (who are at a point in their recovery process where outpatient therapy can meet their needs). Feel free to learn more at moorepsychotherapy.org
(608) 927-5703 View (608) 927-5703
Photo of Ian Nelson-Johnson, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Ian Nelson-Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
I feel especially capable to treat trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and major life transitions.
Currently accepting new clients! It takes tremendous courage to turn the spotlight inwards and work on ourselves. I consider it a genuine privilege to walk alongside people as we navigate their struggles and successes. It is why I have such deep respect for the people who walk through my door. If you are that person, know this: ALL of you is welcome here. Meaningful relationships are central to our well-being, just as much as water or air; however, they often are the source of intense pain. Our therapeutic work will be built on a foundation of trust, and focus on developing the relationships with yourself and others you deserve.
I feel especially capable to treat trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and major life transitions.
Currently accepting new clients! It takes tremendous courage to turn the spotlight inwards and work on ourselves. I consider it a genuine privilege to walk alongside people as we navigate their struggles and successes. It is why I have such deep respect for the people who walk through my door. If you are that person, know this: ALL of you is welcome here. Meaningful relationships are central to our well-being, just as much as water or air; however, they often are the source of intense pain. Our therapeutic work will be built on a foundation of trust, and focus on developing the relationships with yourself and others you deserve.
(608) 602-7225 View (608) 602-7225
Photo of Red Willow Therapy, LLC , Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Red Willow Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I encourage self-reflection including to start noticing things like ANTS--automatic negative thoughts that lead to thought distortions then depression, anxiety and fears.
Immediate openings, no wait list schedule same week. My appointments are either via the office or via video. If you struggle and have difficulty getting out of the problem, I am here to help you seek solutions. Experiencing issues with addiction, anger, or anxiety is dulling your hope and getting in the way of meeting your needs. Unhappy or dissatisfied with your job, life choices, or family situation and want to be in a better place? Acceptance, courage, and wisdom is a recipe that works, and we can work together to get there.
I encourage self-reflection including to start noticing things like ANTS--automatic negative thoughts that lead to thought distortions then depression, anxiety and fears.
Immediate openings, no wait list schedule same week. My appointments are either via the office or via video. If you struggle and have difficulty getting out of the problem, I am here to help you seek solutions. Experiencing issues with addiction, anger, or anxiety is dulling your hope and getting in the way of meeting your needs. Unhappy or dissatisfied with your job, life choices, or family situation and want to be in a better place? Acceptance, courage, and wisdom is a recipe that works, and we can work together to get there.
(608) 200-2787 View (608) 200-2787
Photo of Derek L. Hefner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Derek L. Hefner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Therapy should be more than telling yourself that things are okay when they're not. Therapy can bring healing to wounds that have lasted for years, and finding the right therapist for you is an important first step in that process. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, difficult relationships, and identity challenges. As a trauma survivor myself, I understand both the depths of despair and the struggle to find yourself amid all your pain and loss. Don't give up on therapy if you've had bad or less-than-ideal experiences with therapy in the past. Each therapist is different, and you can find the right one for you.
Therapy should be more than telling yourself that things are okay when they're not. Therapy can bring healing to wounds that have lasted for years, and finding the right therapist for you is an important first step in that process. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, difficult relationships, and identity challenges. As a trauma survivor myself, I understand both the depths of despair and the struggle to find yourself amid all your pain and loss. Don't give up on therapy if you've had bad or less-than-ideal experiences with therapy in the past. Each therapist is different, and you can find the right one for you.
(608) 636-8415 View (608) 636-8415
Photo of Sam Zubella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Sam Zubella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53717  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders can be debilitating with their long lasting symptoms. It is challenging to know where to start when working through difficult emotions and challenges. I like to make a collaborative effort with individuals to create treatment goals that aren't only manageable, but effective for long-term effects. Individuals that struggle with social interactions and a lowered self esteem are able to take matters into their own hands, and we all need a bit of help sometimes.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders can be debilitating with their long lasting symptoms. It is challenging to know where to start when working through difficult emotions and challenges. I like to make a collaborative effort with individuals to create treatment goals that aren't only manageable, but effective for long-term effects. Individuals that struggle with social interactions and a lowered self esteem are able to take matters into their own hands, and we all need a bit of help sometimes.
(608) 573-8725 View (608) 573-8725
Photo of Sellers Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Sellers Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I can help with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, problematic use of alcohol and other substances, trauma, difficulty dealing with emotions, stress related to day-to-day living, struggles with life changes, and self-harming behaviors including suicidal behavior and non-suicidal self-injury.
The number one thing that makes therapy work is the connection between client and therapist. I want to understand what's happening with you so that I can put my skills to good use and help you to meet your therapy goals. My methods are based on scientific research and on my professional experience as a therapist. Many of the techniques I use with clients are techniques that I have applied in my own life to reduce my own suffering and improve my own happiness. I practice much of what I preach, so I know firsthand that these methods work.
I can help with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, problematic use of alcohol and other substances, trauma, difficulty dealing with emotions, stress related to day-to-day living, struggles with life changes, and self-harming behaviors including suicidal behavior and non-suicidal self-injury.
The number one thing that makes therapy work is the connection between client and therapist. I want to understand what's happening with you so that I can put my skills to good use and help you to meet your therapy goals. My methods are based on scientific research and on my professional experience as a therapist. Many of the techniques I use with clients are techniques that I have applied in my own life to reduce my own suffering and improve my own happiness. I practice much of what I preach, so I know firsthand that these methods work.
(608) 535-6652 View (608) 535-6652
Photo of Will Hector, Marriage & Family Therapist in Madison, WI
Will Hector
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
I work with heterosexual and same-sex couples on issues of communication, integrating families, sexuality, power dynamics, attachment, trust, and infidelity. I also work with individuals on grief, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, spiritual inquiry, life transitions, and vocational calling. I hold an empathetic understanding of every client's unique worldview -- and respect how each individual arrives there. I provide compassionate, holistic, and practical support for your healing journey. Thank you for considering therapy as part of your path.
I work with heterosexual and same-sex couples on issues of communication, integrating families, sexuality, power dynamics, attachment, trust, and infidelity. I also work with individuals on grief, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, spiritual inquiry, life transitions, and vocational calling. I hold an empathetic understanding of every client's unique worldview -- and respect how each individual arrives there. I provide compassionate, holistic, and practical support for your healing journey. Thank you for considering therapy as part of your path.
(608) 719-3657 View (608) 719-3657
Photo of Gerald W. Greenfield Ph. D., Psychologist in Madison, WI
Gerald W. Greenfield Ph. D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53725  (Online Only)
Are you looking for someone who is easy to talk to, who will listen supportively and non-judgmentally, and who will also offer helpful feedback? I'm a licensed psychologist who has helped individuals and couples with a wide range of challenges for over 25 years, including marital, relationship, and communication issues; and problems with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem, alcohol use, and struggles related to a bad childhood. (See "Specialties" and "Issues" below.) Whether you have individual and/or relationship concerns, I offer understanding, compassion, new perspectives, and new ways to cope with challenges.
Are you looking for someone who is easy to talk to, who will listen supportively and non-judgmentally, and who will also offer helpful feedback? I'm a licensed psychologist who has helped individuals and couples with a wide range of challenges for over 25 years, including marital, relationship, and communication issues; and problems with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem, alcohol use, and struggles related to a bad childhood. (See "Specialties" and "Issues" below.) Whether you have individual and/or relationship concerns, I offer understanding, compassion, new perspectives, and new ways to cope with challenges.
(608) 315-5716 View (608) 315-5716
Photo of Bradley Dexter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Bradley Dexter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
Bradley Dexter (he, him, his) is a Licensed Professional Counselor. He specializes in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, mood and trauma related disorders, and gender and sexual identity. Bradley has over 20-years’ experience with corporate learning and development with experience with career exploration and finding meaning centered around goal planning and treatment. Bradley treats individual 18 and above with a focus on psychotherapy for adults, seniors, and patients from clinical outpatient environments. He is a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Bradley Dexter (he, him, his) is a Licensed Professional Counselor. He specializes in depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, mood and trauma related disorders, and gender and sexual identity. Bradley has over 20-years’ experience with corporate learning and development with experience with career exploration and finding meaning centered around goal planning and treatment. Bradley treats individual 18 and above with a focus on psychotherapy for adults, seniors, and patients from clinical outpatient environments. He is a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
(608) 413-4312 View (608) 413-4312
Photo of Zachary D Moran, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Zachary D Moran
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I am a generalist but have special interest in treatment-resistant depression, personality disorders, and the integration of mental health with spiritual and philosophical practices.
Therapy has the potential to be deeply rewarding yet people often feel very unsatisfied when they have given it a try. Either your therapist hands you a “one-size-fits-all” bag of coping skills or just sits back passively while you struggle to make sense of things by yourself. Those who have had better experiences know the feeling of a therapist who strives to meet you where you’re at and develop a plan of care that is tailored to your unique, individual situation. The value of that wonderful feeling is borne out by research suggesting that the fit between client and therapist tends to best predict good outcomes down the road.
I am a generalist but have special interest in treatment-resistant depression, personality disorders, and the integration of mental health with spiritual and philosophical practices.
Therapy has the potential to be deeply rewarding yet people often feel very unsatisfied when they have given it a try. Either your therapist hands you a “one-size-fits-all” bag of coping skills or just sits back passively while you struggle to make sense of things by yourself. Those who have had better experiences know the feeling of a therapist who strives to meet you where you’re at and develop a plan of care that is tailored to your unique, individual situation. The value of that wonderful feeling is borne out by research suggesting that the fit between client and therapist tends to best predict good outcomes down the road.
(608) 765-5868 View (608) 765-5868
Photo of Mitch Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Mitch Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
Are you at a crossroads in your life, struggling with crippling anxiety or debilitating depression? Do you need help and support to gain strength and motivation to feel joy? Would you like to build confidence and identify what is your passion in life? Would you like help problem solving and coming up with strategies to overcome barriers that may be internal or external? Would you like to gain the courage to let go of these blocks and make progress toward something that gives life meaning and fulfillment? Would you benefit from learning to connect to yourself as well as others with whom you are in contact?
Are you at a crossroads in your life, struggling with crippling anxiety or debilitating depression? Do you need help and support to gain strength and motivation to feel joy? Would you like to build confidence and identify what is your passion in life? Would you like help problem solving and coming up with strategies to overcome barriers that may be internal or external? Would you like to gain the courage to let go of these blocks and make progress toward something that gives life meaning and fulfillment? Would you benefit from learning to connect to yourself as well as others with whom you are in contact?
(608) 433-2356 View (608) 433-2356
Photo of Zach Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Zach Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703
Are you struggling in ways you don't feel equipped to handle? Anxiety, depression, academic issues, or changes in your eating or sleeping habits? It's okay! You aren't supposed to have all the answers. Getting professional support now can give you a lifetime of better mental health by teaching you the skills you need to succeed in an environment that feels safe and supportive.
Are you struggling in ways you don't feel equipped to handle? Anxiety, depression, academic issues, or changes in your eating or sleeping habits? It's okay! You aren't supposed to have all the answers. Getting professional support now can give you a lifetime of better mental health by teaching you the skills you need to succeed in an environment that feels safe and supportive.
(414) 501-7237 View (414) 501-7237
Photo of Donald Lee Schade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Madison, WI
Donald Lee Schade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53706  (Online Only)
Donnie’s clinical expertise is in working with adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals on topics related to addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression.
Donnie utilizes a solution-focused and client-centered approach that supports clients in setting and reaching personalized, obtainable goals that improve their overall wellbeing. He also draws on evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to teach clients coping skills and help them develop a better understanding of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With almost ten years of clinical practice, Donnie has abundant experience integrating these therapy modalities in a manner best suited to meet the needs of each client.
Donnie’s clinical expertise is in working with adolescents, adults, and elderly individuals on topics related to addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression.
Donnie utilizes a solution-focused and client-centered approach that supports clients in setting and reaching personalized, obtainable goals that improve their overall wellbeing. He also draws on evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to teach clients coping skills and help them develop a better understanding of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. With almost ten years of clinical practice, Donnie has abundant experience integrating these therapy modalities in a manner best suited to meet the needs of each client.
(920) 824-3949 View (920) 824-3949
Photo of Phillip Ross Buttner, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Phillip Ross Buttner
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
I have worked in counseling for over 15 years, specializing in treating anxiety, depression, and spiritual concerns.
Reaching out for help is a significant step, and I deeply appreciate the vulnerability and leap of faith it takes to enter into a therapeutic relationship. I believe that taking the time to get a true sense of a client’s perspective and lived experience is the first and most important step in addressing the concerns and challenges brought into treatment. Because of this, I strive to fully understand the clients I have the privilege to work with.
I have worked in counseling for over 15 years, specializing in treating anxiety, depression, and spiritual concerns.
Reaching out for help is a significant step, and I deeply appreciate the vulnerability and leap of faith it takes to enter into a therapeutic relationship. I believe that taking the time to get a true sense of a client’s perspective and lived experience is the first and most important step in addressing the concerns and challenges brought into treatment. Because of this, I strive to fully understand the clients I have the privilege to work with.
(608) 465-4884 View (608) 465-4884
Photo of Shondale DeLoach, Psychologist in Madison, WI
Shondale DeLoach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience in treating mood disorders, like depression.
I am currently accepting virtual-therapy clients from Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The decision to seek therapy is a very important decision, but choosing the right therapist is even more important since one of the best predictors of a positive therapy outcome is the fit between client and therapist. I strive to provide the people with whom I work an environment that is comfortable, nonjudgmental, and genuinely validating. My job is to provide a space for you to access your strengths and attributes, and with this I can provide psychological approaches to help you address the concerns that brought you in for therapy.
I also have extensive experience in treating mood disorders, like depression.
I am currently accepting virtual-therapy clients from Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The decision to seek therapy is a very important decision, but choosing the right therapist is even more important since one of the best predictors of a positive therapy outcome is the fit between client and therapist. I strive to provide the people with whom I work an environment that is comfortable, nonjudgmental, and genuinely validating. My job is to provide a space for you to access your strengths and attributes, and with this I can provide psychological approaches to help you address the concerns that brought you in for therapy.
(312) 467-7471 View (312) 467-7471
Photo of Mend Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Madison, WI
Mend Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705  (Online Only)
Mend Counseling aims to serve those seeking a straight forward approach to mental health counseling. The world is complex and each individual struggles with different aspects of life, living within their values, and finding a balance in health. Mend aims to create a meaningful relationship with each person that reaches out for aid to address their specific needs and struggles. Though depression, anxiety, substance use, and trauma are all too common each manifests itself in subtle and complex forms.
Mend Counseling aims to serve those seeking a straight forward approach to mental health counseling. The world is complex and each individual struggles with different aspects of life, living within their values, and finding a balance in health. Mend aims to create a meaningful relationship with each person that reaches out for aid to address their specific needs and struggles. Though depression, anxiety, substance use, and trauma are all too common each manifests itself in subtle and complex forms.
(920) 280-7610 View (920) 280-7610
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.