Photo of Zach Sargent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montpelier, VT
Zach Sargent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
Everyone encounters problems at different points in life and many issues can be hard to overcome on your own. I have years of experience working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger, stress, PTSD, grief/loss, health concerns, relationship and family issues. I help people overcome problems to achieve the changes they're working toward and I work with a wide range of people, short term and long term. I can help give me a call today (802) 992-1863. No families or couples, individual therapy only with adults. Medicare/Medicaid/Most Insurances. Counseling face to face via the computer available.
Everyone encounters problems at different points in life and many issues can be hard to overcome on your own. I have years of experience working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger, stress, PTSD, grief/loss, health concerns, relationship and family issues. I help people overcome problems to achieve the changes they're working toward and I work with a wide range of people, short term and long term. I can help give me a call today (802) 992-1863. No families or couples, individual therapy only with adults. Medicare/Medicaid/Most Insurances. Counseling face to face via the computer available.
(802) 992-1863 View (802) 992-1863
Photo of Karen L. Morris, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Montpelier, VT
Karen L. Morris
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
Psychoanalysis and analytic psychotherapy are relationship-based treatment models. Reasons for seeking treatment, such as depression and anxiety, are as unique to individuals as are their relationships, thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. Finding out for one's self what constitutes a good therapeutic relationship develops over time along with insight and transformation. There is no replacement for personal experience where mental health is concerned. In the words of Wilfred Bion, "You are the most important person you are ever likely to meet. Therefore it is of no small importance that you get on well with this important person."
Psychoanalysis and analytic psychotherapy are relationship-based treatment models. Reasons for seeking treatment, such as depression and anxiety, are as unique to individuals as are their relationships, thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. Finding out for one's self what constitutes a good therapeutic relationship develops over time along with insight and transformation. There is no replacement for personal experience where mental health is concerned. In the words of Wilfred Bion, "You are the most important person you are ever likely to meet. Therefore it is of no small importance that you get on well with this important person."
(802) 444-8327 View (802) 444-8327
Photo of Neil Herrick, Pre-Licensed Professional in Montpelier, VT
Neil Herrick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602  (Online Only)
During these times we can experience anxiety, depression, or excessive worry.
I believe that everyone, despite what label or diagnoses we have, deserves to be treated with fairness and empathy. We are not our past; we are not our mistakes and we are not to be judged based on these things. I find opportunity in challenging situations. My philsophy is that we are all doing the best we can based on our level of awareness. Every single being can work to expand on this. I see my job as working with you to shine a light on blind spots, thereby increasing our level of awareness. By doing this, we can address behavior and thought patterns which cause disruption in our lives.
During these times we can experience anxiety, depression, or excessive worry.
I believe that everyone, despite what label or diagnoses we have, deserves to be treated with fairness and empathy. We are not our past; we are not our mistakes and we are not to be judged based on these things. I find opportunity in challenging situations. My philsophy is that we are all doing the best we can based on our level of awareness. Every single being can work to expand on this. I see my job as working with you to shine a light on blind spots, thereby increasing our level of awareness. By doing this, we can address behavior and thought patterns which cause disruption in our lives.
(802) 613-0442 View (802) 613-0442
Photo of Beverly Allen, Counselor in Montpelier, VT
Beverly Allen
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
I focus on helping you to make positive changes in your life and remove barriers that you feel are holding you back. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, codependence, and substance use issues. I provide a comfortable environment where we will work together and help you become more mindful and motivated, improve your thoughts and behaviors, and feel less stressed and anxious. I have flexible hours and my office is conveniently located in downtown Montpelier.
I focus on helping you to make positive changes in your life and remove barriers that you feel are holding you back. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, codependence, and substance use issues. I provide a comfortable environment where we will work together and help you become more mindful and motivated, improve your thoughts and behaviors, and feel less stressed and anxious. I have flexible hours and my office is conveniently located in downtown Montpelier.
(802) 232-4117 View (802) 232-4117
Photo of Peter A Burmeister, Registered Psychotherapist in Montpelier, VT
Peter A Burmeister
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
Waitlist for new clients
Depression, anxiety, and despair invite us to seek out deeper connections and growth. The intimacy that develops in the therapeutic relationship is different from what passes for communication in most peoples' daily lives. In the I and Thou, of genuine therapy, there is no barrier. The goal is to be able to totally see and to be seen. Pretense, persona, the need to impress, many aspects of false perception all fall away. There are no barriers. It is a way of healing soul sickness that is challenging to both therapist and patient while at the same time being effective and fulfilling. Join me for an initial exploratory meeting.
Depression, anxiety, and despair invite us to seek out deeper connections and growth. The intimacy that develops in the therapeutic relationship is different from what passes for communication in most peoples' daily lives. In the I and Thou, of genuine therapy, there is no barrier. The goal is to be able to totally see and to be seen. Pretense, persona, the need to impress, many aspects of false perception all fall away. There are no barriers. It is a way of healing soul sickness that is challenging to both therapist and patient while at the same time being effective and fulfilling. Join me for an initial exploratory meeting.
(802) 526-8174 View (802) 526-8174
Photo of Gary D Frankel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montpelier, VT
Gary D Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults and their families to provide support in coping with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and parent management.
Through over twenty years of experience I have come to realize the importance of true, meaningful client based relationships in order to help individuals find answers to difficult life challenges. Using an eclectic style firmly based in Motivational Enhancement and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, I strive to help my clients find meaning in their lives from within. Life is hard. Challenges never cease. Finding solid solutions that work, for personal issues is key to navigating the ups and downs we all face every day.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults and their families to provide support in coping with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and parent management.
Through over twenty years of experience I have come to realize the importance of true, meaningful client based relationships in order to help individuals find answers to difficult life challenges. Using an eclectic style firmly based in Motivational Enhancement and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, I strive to help my clients find meaning in their lives from within. Life is hard. Challenges never cease. Finding solid solutions that work, for personal issues is key to navigating the ups and downs we all face every day.
(802) 441-4016 View (802) 441-4016
Photo of Kristen Williams, Counselor in Montpelier, VT
Kristen Williams
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602  (Online Only)
Is your substance use getting out of control and creating serious problems? Have memories of your past life experiences been interfering with your present life? Do anger, loneliness, depression, or anxiety prevent you from living your life fully? Or have you just lost your way and wonder what your purpose is? My approach to counseling highly individualized and non-judgmental. I am skilled in assisting people with whatever challenges to gain clarity, decrease suffering, and regain a life more in line with their personal values.
Is your substance use getting out of control and creating serious problems? Have memories of your past life experiences been interfering with your present life? Do anger, loneliness, depression, or anxiety prevent you from living your life fully? Or have you just lost your way and wonder what your purpose is? My approach to counseling highly individualized and non-judgmental. I am skilled in assisting people with whatever challenges to gain clarity, decrease suffering, and regain a life more in line with their personal values.
(802) 661-4851 View (802) 661-4851
Photo of Maxwell Duquette, Registered Psychotherapist in Montpelier, VT
Maxwell Duquette
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05601
I enjoy working with adult and young adult clients looking to identify positive ways forward in a natural outdoor setting. Clients I work with are often interested in easing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, identifying patterns and solutions related to substance use disorder, or are developing strategies for managing AD(h)D.
I enjoy working with adult and young adult clients looking to identify positive ways forward in a natural outdoor setting. Clients I work with are often interested in easing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, identifying patterns and solutions related to substance use disorder, or are developing strategies for managing AD(h)D.
(802) 278-6265 View (802) 278-6265
Photo of Marlee E Brunton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montpelier, VT
Marlee E Brunton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you or your child are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or anger, I am passionate about providing the support and tools to help you function at an optimal level.
I help struggling children, teenagers, and adults to overcome their obstacles and reach their underlying potentials. By building connection, improving communication, and generating meaning, I help individuals to experience their lives as more joyful and less stressful. Figuring out the best way to help yourself or your child can be a daunting task, and I am here to help you navigate through that process. We always want to do best for ourselves and our children, and I have seen how, through therapy, we can open the door for amazing transformations to occur.
Whether you or your child are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or anger, I am passionate about providing the support and tools to help you function at an optimal level.
I help struggling children, teenagers, and adults to overcome their obstacles and reach their underlying potentials. By building connection, improving communication, and generating meaning, I help individuals to experience their lives as more joyful and less stressful. Figuring out the best way to help yourself or your child can be a daunting task, and I am here to help you navigate through that process. We always want to do best for ourselves and our children, and I have seen how, through therapy, we can open the door for amazing transformations to occur.
(802) 828-7076 View (802) 828-7076
Photo of Ginny Giles, Counselor in Montpelier, VT
Ginny Giles
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
I have experience working with adults and adolescents in areas of grief and loss, relationship issues, addiction/alcoholism, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
*** I am currently unable to accept new clients *** Are you struggling with some aspect of your life? You are not alone. We all experience times in our lives where we feel stuck, lost, or challenged, but there is hope. I provide a safe, unconditionally accepting, warm and caring environment where we will work together to bring healing to what troubles you. I value and respect each persons individuality, and my goal is to help you to find your way to where you want to be. I believe in the innate goodness of people, and that each person is capable of meaningful personal insight and growth.
I have experience working with adults and adolescents in areas of grief and loss, relationship issues, addiction/alcoholism, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
*** I am currently unable to accept new clients *** Are you struggling with some aspect of your life? You are not alone. We all experience times in our lives where we feel stuck, lost, or challenged, but there is hope. I provide a safe, unconditionally accepting, warm and caring environment where we will work together to bring healing to what troubles you. I value and respect each persons individuality, and my goal is to help you to find your way to where you want to be. I believe in the innate goodness of people, and that each person is capable of meaningful personal insight and growth.
(802) 787-0228 View (802) 787-0228
Photo of Samuel David Markewich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Montpelier, VT
Samuel David Markewich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is in helping couples, families, teens, and adults to heal from the direct and indirect effects of trauma and build healthy lives and relationships. Trauma shows up in many ways, some obvious and some not realized to be trauma by the person or people going through it. It can have many effects, including fear, anxiety, depression, numbness, chronic pain, negative thoughts, anger, feeling out of control, feeling like it's your fault, not feeling normal, feeling a sense of needing to keep busy, panic, self-harm, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, shutting down, isolating, or being uncomfortable being alone.
My focus is in helping couples, families, teens, and adults to heal from the direct and indirect effects of trauma and build healthy lives and relationships. Trauma shows up in many ways, some obvious and some not realized to be trauma by the person or people going through it. It can have many effects, including fear, anxiety, depression, numbness, chronic pain, negative thoughts, anger, feeling out of control, feeling like it's your fault, not feeling normal, feeling a sense of needing to keep busy, panic, self-harm, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, shutting down, isolating, or being uncomfortable being alone.
(802) 755-3500 View (802) 755-3500
Photo of Asa Twombly, Pre-Licensed Professional in Montpelier, VT
Asa Twombly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
I have experience working with depression and anxiety, addiction, and individuals with ADHD and Autism.
Life can be hard, and we don't have to go it alone. Change is possible, and I offer support to those who are ready to make positive changes in their life. I approach each session with curiosity, directness, and humor. My goal is to help you recognize patterns, thoughts, or behaviors that no longer serve you. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents. I use a directive approach emphasizing evidence-supported tools that are foundational to mental and physical health. I believe the path to fulfillment is a process, not an ultimate destination. By clarifying your values, we can begin to identify both long and short term goals in life.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety, addiction, and individuals with ADHD and Autism.
Life can be hard, and we don't have to go it alone. Change is possible, and I offer support to those who are ready to make positive changes in their life. I approach each session with curiosity, directness, and humor. My goal is to help you recognize patterns, thoughts, or behaviors that no longer serve you. I work with adults, teens, and adolescents. I use a directive approach emphasizing evidence-supported tools that are foundational to mental and physical health. I believe the path to fulfillment is a process, not an ultimate destination. By clarifying your values, we can begin to identify both long and short term goals in life.
(802) 441-6502 View (802) 441-6502
Photo of Adam M. Grundt, Psychologist in Montpelier, VT
Adam M. Grundt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
Waitlist for new clients
I work with seniors, adults and adolescents on a variety of issues, including: communication and relationship concerns; substance use; substance use-associated trauma; dealing with loss; anxiety; depression; handling chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer or HIV infection; HIV-associated trauma; pain management; weight loss; smoking cessation; and LGBTQ issues.
The goal of my practice is to help reduce suffering and to increase capacity for joy, flexibility, and life fulfillment. I individualize my approach to your needs using a mix of different psychological approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, narrative and psychodynamic. I am a Vermont licensed doctoral-level psychologist who trained in health psychology at the Minneapolis VA Hospital, and engaged in postdoctoral study in behavioral medicine at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. I worked for many years at the Hazelden Center, a nationally-recognized leader in addiction treatment, and gained additional experience working with adolescents as a high school counselor and wellness teacher
I work with seniors, adults and adolescents on a variety of issues, including: communication and relationship concerns; substance use; substance use-associated trauma; dealing with loss; anxiety; depression; handling chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer or HIV infection; HIV-associated trauma; pain management; weight loss; smoking cessation; and LGBTQ issues.
The goal of my practice is to help reduce suffering and to increase capacity for joy, flexibility, and life fulfillment. I individualize my approach to your needs using a mix of different psychological approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, narrative and psychodynamic. I am a Vermont licensed doctoral-level psychologist who trained in health psychology at the Minneapolis VA Hospital, and engaged in postdoctoral study in behavioral medicine at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. I worked for many years at the Hazelden Center, a nationally-recognized leader in addiction treatment, and gained additional experience working with adolescents as a high school counselor and wellness teacher
(802) 357-4168 View (802) 357-4168
Photo of Marc A Dutkiewicz, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Montpelier, VT
Marc A Dutkiewicz
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05601
Accepting New Patients When alcohol, drugs, anxiety, and depression are interfering with every day life, attempting to change them can be difficult. My goals to attempt to help you is develop a trusting relationship, and then identify symptoms and define the detrimental effects to your life. The last goal is begin to improve thoughts and behaviors so that you can remove or control substances as a form of medication. Then to improve anxiety and depression symptoms so that everyday life doesn't feel like such a struggle to get through. Individual counseling for IDRP license reinstatement. Please call me so we can chat.
Accepting New Patients When alcohol, drugs, anxiety, and depression are interfering with every day life, attempting to change them can be difficult. My goals to attempt to help you is develop a trusting relationship, and then identify symptoms and define the detrimental effects to your life. The last goal is begin to improve thoughts and behaviors so that you can remove or control substances as a form of medication. Then to improve anxiety and depression symptoms so that everyday life doesn't feel like such a struggle to get through. Individual counseling for IDRP license reinstatement. Please call me so we can chat.
(802) 526-6165 View (802) 526-6165
Photo of Johnathan Maxfield, MA, LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Montpelier, VT
Johnathan Maxfield, MA, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
This may include making sense of traumatic experiences, better understanding patterns of depression, or recognizing coping skills that aren’t working.
My goal as a therapist is to understand a person and their situation by paying close attention to them, asking questions, and using what I have learned from past experience. I think understanding different parts of a person’s life helps create a more complete picture of what is keeping them stuck, unhappy, unaware, or unsatisfied. From there it’s possible to help make changes and face difficult circumstances. My clinical and research work has focused on anxiety, stress, PTSD, moral injury, and helping people suffering from the impact of trauma.
This may include making sense of traumatic experiences, better understanding patterns of depression, or recognizing coping skills that aren’t working.
My goal as a therapist is to understand a person and their situation by paying close attention to them, asking questions, and using what I have learned from past experience. I think understanding different parts of a person’s life helps create a more complete picture of what is keeping them stuck, unhappy, unaware, or unsatisfied. From there it’s possible to help make changes and face difficult circumstances. My clinical and research work has focused on anxiety, stress, PTSD, moral injury, and helping people suffering from the impact of trauma.
(802) 732-2870 View (802) 732-2870
Photo of Joseph D Cusumano, PhD, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Montpelier, VT
Joseph D Cusumano, PhD
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCHMC, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602  (Online Only)
In addition, I have decades of experience working with people dealing with anxiety in all its forms, with depression, with existential issues (like dealing with Covid 19), and with PTSD.
The ideal clients I am reaching out to are interested in participating in teletherapy, either individually or as couples. Due to a number of breaking developments, I have decided to convert my long-running practice to online therapy. I have professional counseling licenses in Vermont, MIssouri, and Illinois. I work from Missouri. Furthermore, I am seeking clients who prefer to work outside of the insurance system. I am rebooting my practice to offer high-qualify and affordable therapy. If you are interested, all you would need is Skype or Zoom (both are free downloads). I am offering 45 minute sessions for $90.
In addition, I have decades of experience working with people dealing with anxiety in all its forms, with depression, with existential issues (like dealing with Covid 19), and with PTSD.
The ideal clients I am reaching out to are interested in participating in teletherapy, either individually or as couples. Due to a number of breaking developments, I have decided to convert my long-running practice to online therapy. I have professional counseling licenses in Vermont, MIssouri, and Illinois. I work from Missouri. Furthermore, I am seeking clients who prefer to work outside of the insurance system. I am rebooting my practice to offer high-qualify and affordable therapy. If you are interested, all you would need is Skype or Zoom (both are free downloads). I am offering 45 minute sessions for $90.
(802) 625-6060 View (802) 625-6060
Photo of Dave Contrada, Psychologist in Montpelier, VT
Dave Contrada
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
Waitlist for new clients
The goal of my practice is to reduce suffering, expand personal freedom, and create a stable and joyous life for my patients. And because the problems people face in life are as unique as people themselves, I approach therapy in a highly personalized manner. I have experience working on a wide range of problems from adjustment to life stress and transforming pervasive negativity to managing and transforming complex mental and emotional pain.
The goal of my practice is to reduce suffering, expand personal freedom, and create a stable and joyous life for my patients. And because the problems people face in life are as unique as people themselves, I approach therapy in a highly personalized manner. I have experience working on a wide range of problems from adjustment to life stress and transforming pervasive negativity to managing and transforming complex mental and emotional pain.
(802) 585-2089 View (802) 585-2089
Photo of Nicole Hovell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Montpelier, VT
Nicole Hovell
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC, MA, Tapping
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05601  (Online Only)
Negative thoughts and emotions disrupt your energy system. Our brain's default is to always think the worst and make you think that you are in danger. Some people feel that way all of the time. If you have core wounds that run deep, negative patterns may re-occur in relationships leaving you unfulfilled. You may even hold negative messages/beliefs about yourself not being good enough. We can work together to bring you inner healing and peace. I want to help you clear away the anger, resentment, sadness and trauma so that you can live your best life with optimal mental well being. Take a chance to make a change.
Negative thoughts and emotions disrupt your energy system. Our brain's default is to always think the worst and make you think that you are in danger. Some people feel that way all of the time. If you have core wounds that run deep, negative patterns may re-occur in relationships leaving you unfulfilled. You may even hold negative messages/beliefs about yourself not being good enough. We can work together to bring you inner healing and peace. I want to help you clear away the anger, resentment, sadness and trauma so that you can live your best life with optimal mental well being. Take a chance to make a change.
(802) 200-2560 View (802) 200-2560
Photo of Michael Anderson Counseling Services, LLC in Montpelier, VT
Michael Anderson Counseling Services, LLC
MA,
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05602
Our minds are powerful. The mind controls our whole body and especially our thoughts. As we go through our journeys of life, we oftentimes process our experiences inaccurately leaving a lasting impact on our mind, body, and behavior. Now, you may have realized the way you are thinking, feeling, or behaving is no longer working for you. Let's see what we can do together to overcome this difficult time.
Our minds are powerful. The mind controls our whole body and especially our thoughts. As we go through our journeys of life, we oftentimes process our experiences inaccurately leaving a lasting impact on our mind, body, and behavior. Now, you may have realized the way you are thinking, feeling, or behaving is no longer working for you. Let's see what we can do together to overcome this difficult time.
(802) 200-2873 View (802) 200-2873
Josie Kokarev
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05603  (Online Only)
I offer general counseling services to adult individuals and couples, covering a wide variety of issues and emotional stressors, some specific and some undefined. I recommend meeting perhaps more than once then deciding together if I may be helpful.
I offer general counseling services to adult individuals and couples, covering a wide variety of issues and emotional stressors, some specific and some undefined. I recommend meeting perhaps more than once then deciding together if I may be helpful.
(802) 242-4695 View (802) 242-4695
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.