Depression Treatment Centers in Vienna, VA

Photo of Sarah Johnson - AMFM Mental Health Treatment, Treatment Center
AMFM Mental Health Treatment
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
We assist those managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders, as well as symptoms like social isolation or self-harm.
We offer a 24/7 residential program combining evidence-based clinical care with restorative activities. Treatment includes CBT, DBT, and EMDR, alongside specialized services like equine therapy and Reiki. Our personalized plans integrate psychiatry and medication management within a community-focused environment to foster long-term mental wellness.
We assist those managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders, as well as symptoms like social isolation or self-harm.
We offer a 24/7 residential program combining evidence-based clinical care with restorative activities. Treatment includes CBT, DBT, and EMDR, alongside specialized services like equine therapy and Reiki. Our personalized plans integrate psychiatry and medication management within a community-focused environment to foster long-term mental wellness.
(571) 686-7920 View (571) 686-7920
Photo of Briana Findley - Embark Behavioral Health, Treatment Center
Embark Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Vienna, VA 22182
We know how difficult it can be to see your son or daughter struggling with severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation.
Our Vienna, Virginia IOP and PHP offer personalized mental health care that provides intensive support and helps adolescents, teens and young adults learn the skills necessary for long-term mental wellness. Our therapists work directly with each young person to identify where they are in their healing journey and develop a custom treatment program for their needs. We understand how difficult it can be for teens and their families struggling with severe mental health conditions like self-harm, depression and suicidal ideation. We're here to help your child overcome the challenges affecting your family’s everyday life.
We know how difficult it can be to see your son or daughter struggling with severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation.
Our Vienna, Virginia IOP and PHP offer personalized mental health care that provides intensive support and helps adolescents, teens and young adults learn the skills necessary for long-term mental wellness. Our therapists work directly with each young person to identify where they are in their healing journey and develop a custom treatment program for their needs. We understand how difficult it can be for teens and their families struggling with severe mental health conditions like self-harm, depression and suicidal ideation. We're here to help your child overcome the challenges affecting your family’s everyday life.
(571) 548-3409 View (571) 548-3409
Photo of Delea Peterson - Embark Behavioral Health , Treatment Center
Embark Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Vienna, VA 22182
We know how difficult it can be to see your loved one struggling with severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation.
Our Alpharetta, Georgia IOP and PHP offer personalized mental health care that provides intensive support and helps adolescents, teens and young adults learn the skills necessary for long-term mental wellness. Our therapists work directly with each young person to identify where they are in their healing journey and develop a custom treatment program for their needs. We understand how difficult it can be for teens and their families struggling with severe mental health conditions like self-harm, depression and suicidal ideation. We're here to help your child overcome the challenges affecting your family’s everyday life.
We know how difficult it can be to see your loved one struggling with severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation.
Our Alpharetta, Georgia IOP and PHP offer personalized mental health care that provides intensive support and helps adolescents, teens and young adults learn the skills necessary for long-term mental wellness. Our therapists work directly with each young person to identify where they are in their healing journey and develop a custom treatment program for their needs. We understand how difficult it can be for teens and their families struggling with severe mental health conditions like self-harm, depression and suicidal ideation. We're here to help your child overcome the challenges affecting your family’s everyday life.
(571) 587-3301 View (571) 587-3301
Photo of Samantha Finnie - Mission Prep Teen Treatment, Treatment Center
Mission Prep Teen Treatment
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Mission Prep Virginia serves teens aged 13-17 struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, among others.
Our residential program combines evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT with a family-centered approach. We create individualized plans tailored to each teen’s needs, fostering resilience and recovery.
Mission Prep Virginia serves teens aged 13-17 struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, among others.
Our residential program combines evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT with a family-centered approach. We create individualized plans tailored to each teen’s needs, fostering resilience and recovery.
(571) 583-5241 View (571) 583-5241
Photo of Partam Manalai - Premier Psychiatry Associates, Treatment Center, MD, DFAPA
Premier Psychiatry Associates
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Manalai is a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist with nearly two decades of experience helping adults navigate a range of psychiatric challenges—from depression and bipolar disorder to trauma, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, and substance use.
While Dr. Manalai specializes in severe and treatment-resistant illness, he has also found great meaning in helping high-achieving professionals—including college and graduate students, physicians, lawyers, and public figures—navigate the unique challenges they face. One patient, during a difficult winter, left him this poem: "Within the prism of the snow a blade of grass began to grow— simmering lights to still the green, walls of brown to it unseen." Beneath the poem, the patient added: "Thank you for being a blade of grass for me to step on, to propel me into the new."
Manalai is a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist with nearly two decades of experience helping adults navigate a range of psychiatric challenges—from depression and bipolar disorder to trauma, ADHD, OCD, schizophrenia, and substance use.
While Dr. Manalai specializes in severe and treatment-resistant illness, he has also found great meaning in helping high-achieving professionals—including college and graduate students, physicians, lawyers, and public figures—navigate the unique challenges they face. One patient, during a difficult winter, left him this poem: "Within the prism of the snow a blade of grass began to grow— simmering lights to still the green, walls of brown to it unseen." Beneath the poem, the patient added: "Thank you for being a blade of grass for me to step on, to propel me into the new."
(703) 594-4164 View (703) 594-4164
Photo of Sarah Johnson - Mission Connection, Treatment Center
Mission Connection
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We address various needs, from anxiety and depression to trauma and mood disorders, providing a dedicated space for those who want to balance their recovery with daily life, school, or career responsibilities in a supportive community.
Our approach utilizes evidence-based clinical practices and a "treatment persistent" philosophy. We offer structured outpatient care that fits into your life, featuring individual therapy, group sessions, and psychiatry. We focus on building lasting coping skills through a blend of traditional therapies and holistic wellness interventions.
We address various needs, from anxiety and depression to trauma and mood disorders, providing a dedicated space for those who want to balance their recovery with daily life, school, or career responsibilities in a supportive community.
Our approach utilizes evidence-based clinical practices and a "treatment persistent" philosophy. We offer structured outpatient care that fits into your life, featuring individual therapy, group sessions, and psychiatry. We focus on building lasting coping skills through a blend of traditional therapies and holistic wellness interventions.
(571) 701-6525 View (571) 701-6525
Photo of Jocelyn Cohen - Living Free Health Services, Treatment Center, LCSW
Living Free Health Services
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Have you suffered from PTSD, depression, anxiety, or grief related issues?
At Living Free we understand that you want to improve your health, general state of well-being, memory, concentration, and feel more energetic. We focus on treating the person as a whole and treat a wide variety of problems including: Depression, stress, mood disorders, fears and phobias, post-traumatic stress, relationship issues, self-esteem disorders, and anxiety. Clients previously treated have experienced reduced depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and have enjoyed a better quality of life.
Have you suffered from PTSD, depression, anxiety, or grief related issues?
At Living Free we understand that you want to improve your health, general state of well-being, memory, concentration, and feel more energetic. We focus on treating the person as a whole and treat a wide variety of problems including: Depression, stress, mood disorders, fears and phobias, post-traumatic stress, relationship issues, self-esteem disorders, and anxiety. Clients previously treated have experienced reduced depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and have enjoyed a better quality of life.
(703) 952-9269 View (703) 952-9269
Photo of Center Discovery - Center For Discovery, Treatment Center
Center For Discovery
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Our therapeutic practices help patients know when/ how to use effective coping skills for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, orthorexia nervosa, other specified eating disorders and co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, PTSD and OCD.
Healing, growth and a positive relationship with food is possible with the Center for Discovery Dietary Program. We use the CARE Model, which stands for “consistent attuned relational eating.” This means patients have the steadiness of a dietary plan that is adaptable to what’s happening in their life. We believe in Health at Every Size because everyone can be healthy regardless of size, shape, weight or BMI. We encourage Intuitive Eating — nourishing ourselves when we’re hungry and recognizing when we feel full. We utilize the All Foods Fit model, which celebrates that all foods are nourishment, and no foods are off-limits in moderation. These core elements help our patients walk out of treatment feeling engaged, empowered and transformed so that they can manage long-term recovery. In fact, 86.5% of clients who completed treatment didn’t need to return to Center for Discovery or any other program for a higher level of care for eating disorder treatment.
Our therapeutic practices help patients know when/ how to use effective coping skills for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, orthorexia nervosa, other specified eating disorders and co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, PTSD and OCD.
Healing, growth and a positive relationship with food is possible with the Center for Discovery Dietary Program. We use the CARE Model, which stands for “consistent attuned relational eating.” This means patients have the steadiness of a dietary plan that is adaptable to what’s happening in their life. We believe in Health at Every Size because everyone can be healthy regardless of size, shape, weight or BMI. We encourage Intuitive Eating — nourishing ourselves when we’re hungry and recognizing when we feel full. We utilize the All Foods Fit model, which celebrates that all foods are nourishment, and no foods are off-limits in moderation. These core elements help our patients walk out of treatment feeling engaged, empowered and transformed so that they can manage long-term recovery. In fact, 86.5% of clients who completed treatment didn’t need to return to Center for Discovery or any other program for a higher level of care for eating disorder treatment.
(703) 952-3426 View (703) 952-3426
Photo of Samantha Finnie - AMFM Mental Health Treatment, Treatment Center
AMFM Mental Health Treatment
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22181
A Mission for Michael in Virginia serves adults facing mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
Our evidence-based programs include therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR, delivered in a structured yet comforting setting. We focus on addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes to foster sustainable healing and personal growth.
A Mission for Michael in Virginia serves adults facing mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
Our evidence-based programs include therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR, delivered in a structured yet comforting setting. We focus on addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes to foster sustainable healing and personal growth.
(571) 603-7917 View (571) 603-7917
Photo of Samantha Finnie - AMFM Mental Health Treatment, Treatment Center
AMFM Mental Health Treatment
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22181
A Mission for Michael supports adults with complex mental health needs, such as PTSD, anxiety, and dual diagnoses. Our clients often feel isolated and seek a program that provides personalized, empathetic care to support their healing journey.
A Mission for Michael supports adults with complex mental health needs, such as PTSD, anxiety, and dual diagnoses. Our clients often feel isolated and seek a program that provides personalized, empathetic care to support their healing journey.
(571) 538-4303 View (571) 538-4303
Photo of Encore Outpatient - Encore Outpatient Services, Treatment Center
Encore Outpatient Services
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Encore Outpatient Services in Arlington, VA provides comprehensive treatment for substance use, co-occurring disorders, process addictions and trauma through our intensive and general outpatient programs. Additionally, Encore is an approved VASAP treatment site. With flexible daytime and evening programming—including individual therapy, group therapy, experiential components, gender specific groups, family/loved ones support group and medication management—we support adults (18+) in achieving their recovery goals. Our integrated care model fosters lasting healing and long-term recovery.
Encore Outpatient Services in Arlington, VA provides comprehensive treatment for substance use, co-occurring disorders, process addictions and trauma through our intensive and general outpatient programs. Additionally, Encore is an approved VASAP treatment site. With flexible daytime and evening programming—including individual therapy, group therapy, experiential components, gender specific groups, family/loved ones support group and medication management—we support adults (18+) in achieving their recovery goals. Our integrated care model fosters lasting healing and long-term recovery.
(703) 782-8829 View (703) 782-8829
Photo of Admission Team - Center For Discovery, Treatment Center
Center For Discovery
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Our therapeutic practices help patients know when/ how to use effective coping skills for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, orthorexia nervosa, other specified eating disorders and co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, PTSD and OCD.
Healing, growth and a positive relationship with food is possible with the Center for Discovery Dietary Program. We use the CARE Model, which stands for “consistent attuned relational eating.” This means patients have the steadiness of a dietary plan that is adaptable to what’s happening in their life. We believe in Health at Every Size because everyone can be healthy regardless of size, shape, weight or BMI. We encourage Intuitive Eating — nourishing ourselves when we’re hungry and recognizing when we feel full. We utilize the All Foods Fit model, which celebrates that all foods are nourishment, and no foods are off-limits in moderation. These core elements help our patients walk out of treatment feeling engaged, empowered and transformed so that they can manage long-term recovery. In fact, 86.5% of clients who completed treatment didn’t need to return to Center for Discovery or any other program for a higher level of care for eating disorder treatment.
Our therapeutic practices help patients know when/ how to use effective coping skills for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, orthorexia nervosa, other specified eating disorders and co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, PTSD and OCD.
Healing, growth and a positive relationship with food is possible with the Center for Discovery Dietary Program. We use the CARE Model, which stands for “consistent attuned relational eating.” This means patients have the steadiness of a dietary plan that is adaptable to what’s happening in their life. We believe in Health at Every Size because everyone can be healthy regardless of size, shape, weight or BMI. We encourage Intuitive Eating — nourishing ourselves when we’re hungry and recognizing when we feel full. We utilize the All Foods Fit model, which celebrates that all foods are nourishment, and no foods are off-limits in moderation. These core elements help our patients walk out of treatment feeling engaged, empowered and transformed so that they can manage long-term recovery. In fact, 86.5% of clients who completed treatment didn’t need to return to Center for Discovery or any other program for a higher level of care for eating disorder treatment.
(703) 260-9926 View (703) 260-9926
Photo of Sandstone C - Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center, Treatment Center, MD, LPC, LAC, CAC-III, CSAC-A
When you and your family are facing addiction, it can feel impossible to know what treatment will actually make a difference. That’s why at Sandstone Care Rockville, we are built on what is proven to work; treatments backed by research, and tested in real life. We provide age-specific care for teens 13-18 and young adults 18-35 struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. We have a full range of evidence-based outpatient programs, including Day Treatment (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) while tracking outcomes to make sure that treatment is the right fit, and stays the right fit as needs change.
When you and your family are facing addiction, it can feel impossible to know what treatment will actually make a difference. That’s why at Sandstone Care Rockville, we are built on what is proven to work; treatments backed by research, and tested in real life. We provide age-specific care for teens 13-18 and young adults 18-35 struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. We have a full range of evidence-based outpatient programs, including Day Treatment (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) while tracking outcomes to make sure that treatment is the right fit, and stays the right fit as needs change.
(240) 858-0384 View (240) 858-0384

More Treatment Centers Nearby

Photo of Sarah Johnnson - AMFM Mental Health Treatment, Treatment Center
AMFM Mental Health Treatment
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
Our clients often navigate complex challenges such as severe depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood instability that have made daily functioning or professional life difficult.
Our clinical philosophy centers on providing intensive, evidence-based care in a safe residential setting. We utilize a range of therapeutic modalities, including individual and group therapy, psychiatric support, and specialized trauma-informed care. Our goal is to move beyond symptom management by addressing the core drivers of mental health struggles.
Our clients often navigate complex challenges such as severe depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood instability that have made daily functioning or professional life difficult.
Our clinical philosophy centers on providing intensive, evidence-based care in a safe residential setting. We utilize a range of therapeutic modalities, including individual and group therapy, psychiatric support, and specialized trauma-informed care. Our goal is to move beyond symptom management by addressing the core drivers of mental health struggles.
(571) 677-8224 View (571) 677-8224
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Piedmont Behavioral Services, Treatment Center, MD
Piedmont Behavioral Services
Treatment Center
Lansdowne, VA 20176
We offer full spectrum of behavioral health services ranging from medication management, Individual/Group therapy, Intensive Outpatient programs (IOP), Addiction, TMS therapy and Spravato treatment. Our team consists of Child, Adult Psychiatrists and therapists.
We offer full spectrum of behavioral health services ranging from medication management, Individual/Group therapy, Intensive Outpatient programs (IOP), Addiction, TMS therapy and Spravato treatment. Our team consists of Child, Adult Psychiatrists and therapists.
(540) 328-6260 View (540) 328-6260
Photo of Cyndi Turner - Insight Into Action Therapy, Treatment Center, LCSW, LSATP, MAC
Insight Into Action Therapy
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Life is hard enough. Getting help should not be stressful. You can get all of your mental health and substance use treatment in one place. We collaborate with involved professionals. Insight offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychological testing, MAT/MOUD and individual, couples, family, play, and group therapy. Appointments are available within 48 hours with an expert in his/her field including autism, alcohol moderation, harm reduction psychotherapy, anxiety disorders, and relationships. One of us will call to help figure out the best path for you and your family. Licensed in VA, MD, WV, and DC.
Life is hard enough. Getting help should not be stressful. You can get all of your mental health and substance use treatment in one place. We collaborate with involved professionals. Insight offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychological testing, MAT/MOUD and individual, couples, family, play, and group therapy. Appointments are available within 48 hours with an expert in his/her field including autism, alcohol moderation, harm reduction psychotherapy, anxiety disorders, and relationships. One of us will call to help figure out the best path for you and your family. Licensed in VA, MD, WV, and DC.
(703) 215-9660 View (703) 215-9660
Photo of Navin Reddy - WIP Psychiatry & Ketamine/TMS Center, Treatment Center, MD
WIP Psychiatry & Ketamine/TMS Center
Treatment Center
Serves Area
We specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, and treatment-resistant conditions—especially when therapy or medications haven't helped.
Many of our patients have already tried therapy or medications and remain stuck. At Washington Interventional Psychiatry, we focus on what comes next. We are a psychiatrist-led practice that integrates traditional care with advanced treatments like ketamine, TMS, and Spravato—within a single, coordinated treatment plan. Decisions aren’t made by protocol or in isolation, but through ongoing clinical evaluation.
We specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, and treatment-resistant conditions—especially when therapy or medications haven't helped.
Many of our patients have already tried therapy or medications and remain stuck. At Washington Interventional Psychiatry, we focus on what comes next. We are a psychiatrist-led practice that integrates traditional care with advanced treatments like ketamine, TMS, and Spravato—within a single, coordinated treatment plan. Decisions aren’t made by protocol or in isolation, but through ongoing clinical evaluation.
(202) 838-8917 View (202) 838-8917
Photo of Calo Missouri - Embark Behavioral Health , Treatment Center
Embark Behavioral Health
Treatment Center
Serves Area
We understand how heartbreaking it is to watch your adolescent or teen struggle with severe mental health conditions like suicidal thoughts, self-harm, depression and anxiety.
At our Benton, Tennessee residential treatment center, we believe that family involvement is key to a teen’s healing process. Our program fosters open communication, trust and connection between parents and teens, offering family involvement to strengthen trusting relationships. We work closely with families to ensure they’re involved every step of the way, offering support and guidance to help everyone heal together. Through family workshops and regular check-ins, we aim to rebuild bonds and create a supportive environment both during treatment and at home.
We understand how heartbreaking it is to watch your adolescent or teen struggle with severe mental health conditions like suicidal thoughts, self-harm, depression and anxiety.
At our Benton, Tennessee residential treatment center, we believe that family involvement is key to a teen’s healing process. Our program fosters open communication, trust and connection between parents and teens, offering family involvement to strengthen trusting relationships. We work closely with families to ensure they’re involved every step of the way, offering support and guidance to help everyone heal together. Through family workshops and regular check-ins, we aim to rebuild bonds and create a supportive environment both during treatment and at home.
(423) 264-2283 View (423) 264-2283
Photo of Lisa M DAlessio - The HEAL Foundation, Treatment Center, LPC
The HEAL Foundation
Treatment Center
Catlett, VA 20119
They are experiencing depression, anxiety and/or are diagnosed with PTS.
We utilize horses to facilitate sessions with individuals, families and groups conducted by skilled equine specialists and licensed mental health therapists who are trained and certified in the Eagala Model of Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy. Our clients are those who have struggled to connect with traditional therapy and who are interested in goal-oriented, solution focused therapy. Equine therapy is particularly effective at creating metaphors that help clients better understand their interpersonal relationships and to feel connected with their families. Working with horses helps clients learn coping skills to self-soothe, to reduce anxiety and improve communication skills.
They are experiencing depression, anxiety and/or are diagnosed with PTS.
We utilize horses to facilitate sessions with individuals, families and groups conducted by skilled equine specialists and licensed mental health therapists who are trained and certified in the Eagala Model of Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy. Our clients are those who have struggled to connect with traditional therapy and who are interested in goal-oriented, solution focused therapy. Equine therapy is particularly effective at creating metaphors that help clients better understand their interpersonal relationships and to feel connected with their families. Working with horses helps clients learn coping skills to self-soothe, to reduce anxiety and improve communication skills.
(571) 200-7206 View (571) 200-7206
Photo of Newport Newport - Newport Academy Teen and Adolescent Outpatient, Treatment Center
Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use.
Our integrated approach includes psychiatric care and medication management. We utilize clinical and experiential modalities to address the underlying trauma that catalyzes mental health and co-occurring disorders. Our modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT).
Our family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from mental health and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, eating disorders, and substance use.
Our integrated approach includes psychiatric care and medication management. We utilize clinical and experiential modalities to address the underlying trauma that catalyzes mental health and co-occurring disorders. Our modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT).
(703) 810-3639 View (703) 810-3639

See more therapy options for Vienna

Depression Treatment Centers
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.