Therapists in Prince William County, VA

Counseling and Forensic Services Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, CSOTP, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
The philosophy of the practice is to empower individuals to cope with, and solve, their problems, accentuating their strengths and unique capabilities. Systems, cognitive-behavioral, relapse prevention and solution focused techniques are used to help people move on with their lives as quickly as possible. CFS treats all types of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, major mental health disorders, issues related to development, including divorce, empty nest syndrome, family reunification, aging, and young families with children and adolescents.
The philosophy of the practice is to empower individuals to cope with, and solve, their problems, accentuating their strengths and unique capabilities. Systems, cognitive-behavioral, relapse prevention and solution focused techniques are used to help people move on with their lives as quickly as possible. CFS treats all types of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, major mental health disorders, issues related to development, including divorce, empty nest syndrome, family reunification, aging, and young families with children and adolescents.
(703) 492-2994 View (703) 492-2994
Photo of Octavia Haughton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Octavia Haughton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
I have experience over ten years of experience working with adults/adolescents diagnosed with anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment & mood disorders and serious mental illness.
Counseling is a supportive nonjudgmental approach to learning ways to cope with personal and professional stressors. My goal is to help you gain insight, while developing strategies to improve your overall satisfaction and quality of life. Together, we will identify and utilize your strengths to let go of unhealthy practices and respond better to stress.
I have experience over ten years of experience working with adults/adolescents diagnosed with anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment & mood disorders and serious mental illness.
Counseling is a supportive nonjudgmental approach to learning ways to cope with personal and professional stressors. My goal is to help you gain insight, while developing strategies to improve your overall satisfaction and quality of life. Together, we will identify and utilize your strengths to let go of unhealthy practices and respond better to stress.
(703) 705-7920 View (703) 705-7920
Photo of Ceres Artico Ph. D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Ceres Artico Ph. D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Artico's areas of expertise include treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety (including performance anxiety), and relationship difficulties.
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
Artico's areas of expertise include treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety (including performance anxiety), and relationship difficulties.
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
(703) 947-0838 View (703) 947-0838
Photo of Elizabeth M Wilkins-McKee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Elizabeth M Wilkins-McKee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20111
I work with children of all ages, families, couples and individuals addressing: parenting challenges, anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, perinatal mood, separation and depression.
I believe in treating the whole person, so let me introduce myself. I’ve been practicing as a licensed clinical social worker for 25 years (in Michigan, Vermont, and Virginia). I’m a second-generation mental health provider (and third-generation health care provider). I’m a singer, gardener, swimmer, reader, and traveler. I live in Manassas, Virginia with my husband and two awesome kids. And I love what I do. I’ve had the privilege of serving more than a thousand clients, people who have come to me with the desire to live a healthier and less painful life. I’ve had the joy of nurturing their growth and witnessing their healing.
I work with children of all ages, families, couples and individuals addressing: parenting challenges, anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, perinatal mood, separation and depression.
I believe in treating the whole person, so let me introduce myself. I’ve been practicing as a licensed clinical social worker for 25 years (in Michigan, Vermont, and Virginia). I’m a second-generation mental health provider (and third-generation health care provider). I’m a singer, gardener, swimmer, reader, and traveler. I live in Manassas, Virginia with my husband and two awesome kids. And I love what I do. I’ve had the privilege of serving more than a thousand clients, people who have come to me with the desire to live a healthier and less painful life. I’ve had the joy of nurturing their growth and witnessing their healing.
(571) 771-2720 View (571) 771-2720
Photo of Sierra Counseling Services (SCS), LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Sierra Counseling Services (SCS), LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
My focus is working with adolescents, adults/families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, cultural conflict, relationship issues and trauma.
If you are overwhelmed with life challenges and feel the need to talk to talk someone, know that I am here and YOU'RE NOT ALONE!!!. My counseling style strives on building a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship that will engage you in the process of healing and personal growth.
My focus is working with adolescents, adults/families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, cultural conflict, relationship issues and trauma.
If you are overwhelmed with life challenges and feel the need to talk to talk someone, know that I am here and YOU'RE NOT ALONE!!!. My counseling style strives on building a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship that will engage you in the process of healing and personal growth.
(703) 810-3718 View (703) 810-3718
Photo of Nausheen Yunas, Psychologist in Prince William County, VA
Nausheen Yunas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety.
Are you tired of that self-critical voice in your head that tells you you're not good enough? The constant cycle of self-deprecation has you feeling exhausted. Maybe that voice constantly reminds you of all the ways you're not measuring up. To others you look like you have it all together but, on the inside, you’re often unsure of yourself. You wonder what other people have that you don't and that question makes you feel sad, lonely, hopeless and isolated from the world. You're sick of feeling inadequate and want so badly to feel like you're living and not just surviving.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety.
Are you tired of that self-critical voice in your head that tells you you're not good enough? The constant cycle of self-deprecation has you feeling exhausted. Maybe that voice constantly reminds you of all the ways you're not measuring up. To others you look like you have it all together but, on the inside, you’re often unsure of yourself. You wonder what other people have that you don't and that question makes you feel sad, lonely, hopeless and isolated from the world. You're sick of feeling inadequate and want so badly to feel like you're living and not just surviving.
(703) 991-4964 View (703) 991-4964
Photo of iHeal Wellness Therapy and Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
iHeal Wellness Therapy and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
We specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, job stress, major life crises, and life transitions.
Are you dealing with stress, relationship issues, mood disorders, career/professional concerns, or life transitions? Are you feeling overwhelmed and imbalanced? When this happens, everything else suffers from your personal to your professional life, including how you feel. You may find it challenging to find the right therapist who can help you heal. Just know that you are not alone. It can be difficult to seek therapy, especially if you tried it before and felt like it didn't work. “One size does not fit all.” Our approaches are tailored to the needs of each individual to help you find long lasting solutions. We can help.
We specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, job stress, major life crises, and life transitions.
Are you dealing with stress, relationship issues, mood disorders, career/professional concerns, or life transitions? Are you feeling overwhelmed and imbalanced? When this happens, everything else suffers from your personal to your professional life, including how you feel. You may find it challenging to find the right therapist who can help you heal. Just know that you are not alone. It can be difficult to seek therapy, especially if you tried it before and felt like it didn't work. “One size does not fit all.” Our approaches are tailored to the needs of each individual to help you find long lasting solutions. We can help.
(855) 309-8275 View (855) 309-8275
Photo of Melissa Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Melissa Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSATP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You have made the first step to improve your mental health and wellness, seeking the assistance of a qualified therapist. Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship problems or life transitions, therapy can play a key part in the development of goals, identification of roadblocks to achieving those goals and building the tools to bring about change. I bring an integrative approach to help people resolve emotional conflicts, develop self-awareness/acceptance and increase coping skills, constructive behaviors, and thought patterns.
You have made the first step to improve your mental health and wellness, seeking the assistance of a qualified therapist. Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship problems or life transitions, therapy can play a key part in the development of goals, identification of roadblocks to achieving those goals and building the tools to bring about change. I bring an integrative approach to help people resolve emotional conflicts, develop self-awareness/acceptance and increase coping skills, constructive behaviors, and thought patterns.
(571) 568-9030 View (571) 568-9030
Photo of Schlese Castilla, Pre-Licensed Professional in Prince William County, VA
Schlese Castilla
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20109  (Online Only)
I believe the relationship between therapist and client supports the client's capacity for self-understanding, insight, and change. Therapy is also a space for clients to learn how to establish a healthy connection with their life experiences. Cultivating a healthy connection with life is an important factor; it helps clients reduce a range of negative and overwhelming thoughts and feelings associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Ultimately, therapy can help clients reconcile difficult emotions and experiences, so they can restore a sense self-worth, and an ability to feel safe and trust (others and themselves).
I believe the relationship between therapist and client supports the client's capacity for self-understanding, insight, and change. Therapy is also a space for clients to learn how to establish a healthy connection with their life experiences. Cultivating a healthy connection with life is an important factor; it helps clients reduce a range of negative and overwhelming thoughts and feelings associated with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Ultimately, therapy can help clients reconcile difficult emotions and experiences, so they can restore a sense self-worth, and an ability to feel safe and trust (others and themselves).
(571) 999-6898 View (571) 999-6898
Photo of Esther Romero, Pre-Licensed Professional in Prince William County, VA
Esther Romero
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I have experience in the culturally informed treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use/abuse, criminal activity, relationship/family issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and anger management.
Seeking out treatment is a crucial step towards achieving your desired state of well-being. Therapy is a tool that enables growth by allowing and/or enhancing self-awareness and making positive/desired changes. Therapists are not one-size-fits-all, so it is crucial to find the right therapist for you. I am currently a Resident in Counseling and working towards licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is eclectic, using evidence-based techniques that have been proven effective and adapting my approach to each client's unique needs and treatment goals.
I have experience in the culturally informed treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use/abuse, criminal activity, relationship/family issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and anger management.
Seeking out treatment is a crucial step towards achieving your desired state of well-being. Therapy is a tool that enables growth by allowing and/or enhancing self-awareness and making positive/desired changes. Therapists are not one-size-fits-all, so it is crucial to find the right therapist for you. I am currently a Resident in Counseling and working towards licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is eclectic, using evidence-based techniques that have been proven effective and adapting my approach to each client's unique needs and treatment goals.
(571) 450-9245 View (571) 450-9245
Photo of Stephanie Walker Crowe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Stephanie Walker Crowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC, ACS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Passion and empathy combine to allow me to help many incredible people affirm their strengths and overcome obstacles. Developing a genuine rapport with the clients served is also essential to their success. A firm believer that we are all capable of amazing feats, I feel strongly that, at times, we just need help to gain clarity. Along with educational and practical experience, the realization that each client has an individual perspective and distinct set of circumstances enables the facilitation of many concerns ranging from everyday life stressors, to depression, anxiety, and many other mental health and behavioral concerns.
Passion and empathy combine to allow me to help many incredible people affirm their strengths and overcome obstacles. Developing a genuine rapport with the clients served is also essential to their success. A firm believer that we are all capable of amazing feats, I feel strongly that, at times, we just need help to gain clarity. Along with educational and practical experience, the realization that each client has an individual perspective and distinct set of circumstances enables the facilitation of many concerns ranging from everyday life stressors, to depression, anxiety, and many other mental health and behavioral concerns.
(703) 997-8546 View (703) 997-8546
Photo of Heidi Graybill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Heidi Graybill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20169
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
(571) 470-5470 View (571) 470-5470
Photo of Shantell Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Shantell Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I specialize in Crisis therapy, depression, substance abuse/addiction, trauma and PTSD.
My ideal client would be a person who is looking for help in various areas in life. I envision myself helping the person that is in need focus on their issues with mental health, well being, spiritually, PTSD, relationship issues and depression. I have been through a lot in my journey of life, and I have learned with the right supports in place, you can see the silver lining in any situation! My focus would be to help you through in your time of need so that you can continue to grow through life's changes! My military background has allowed me to be judgment free and have a client focused approach. Contact me today to talk!
I specialize in Crisis therapy, depression, substance abuse/addiction, trauma and PTSD.
My ideal client would be a person who is looking for help in various areas in life. I envision myself helping the person that is in need focus on their issues with mental health, well being, spiritually, PTSD, relationship issues and depression. I have been through a lot in my journey of life, and I have learned with the right supports in place, you can see the silver lining in any situation! My focus would be to help you through in your time of need so that you can continue to grow through life's changes! My military background has allowed me to be judgment free and have a client focused approach. Contact me today to talk!
(571) 462-6205 View (571) 462-6205
Photo of Bill Redmiles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Bill Redmiles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109
If you are an adult man or woman who is experiencing anxiety or depression or perhaps is struggling in a significant relationship, counseling can help you. With my collaborative approach we can work together to help you access the inner strengths you need to work through your difficult situation. I also work with clients who are struggling with grief from the loss of a significant other or in need of help to deal with anger issues. I have been trained in EFT for couples.
If you are an adult man or woman who is experiencing anxiety or depression or perhaps is struggling in a significant relationship, counseling can help you. With my collaborative approach we can work together to help you access the inner strengths you need to work through your difficult situation. I also work with clients who are struggling with grief from the loss of a significant other or in need of help to deal with anger issues. I have been trained in EFT for couples.
(703) 596-8502 View (703) 596-8502
Photo of Emmanuel Roy Smith Sr. Esq., Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Emmanuel Roy Smith Sr. Esq.
Counselor, BBA, LLB, MA, RIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22191
I believe that empowerment and encouragement through the use of counseling strategies can help promote and build positive life skills to help improve interpersonal relationships, reduce stress, and anger. My passion for counseling is to help create positive change or adjustments for each individual that I counsel. I apply a variety of counseling strategies and approaches, and believe in their situational application. I have extensive experience working with adults, children with: depression, social issues, grief, relationships, conflict resolutions, anger management, anxieties, spiritual concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder
I believe that empowerment and encouragement through the use of counseling strategies can help promote and build positive life skills to help improve interpersonal relationships, reduce stress, and anger. My passion for counseling is to help create positive change or adjustments for each individual that I counsel. I apply a variety of counseling strategies and approaches, and believe in their situational application. I have extensive experience working with adults, children with: depression, social issues, grief, relationships, conflict resolutions, anger management, anxieties, spiritual concerns, post-traumatic stress disorder
(703) 935-4594 View (703) 935-4594
Photo of Ziho David Park, Resident in Counseling in Prince William County, VA
Ziho David Park
Resident in Counseling, MA, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20109
Do you feel overwhelmed or exhausted in life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or substance abuse? Are you seeking a positive change in your life? Maybe you are feeling confused, lost or stuck along your journey through life. Have these issues overwhelmed your ability to cope? Whatever your struggles may be, I offer a safe space for self growth and I will support you to reach the goals you identify, overcome challenges, identify coping strategies and grow your potential.
Do you feel overwhelmed or exhausted in life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or substance abuse? Are you seeking a positive change in your life? Maybe you are feeling confused, lost or stuck along your journey through life. Have these issues overwhelmed your ability to cope? Whatever your struggles may be, I offer a safe space for self growth and I will support you to reach the goals you identify, overcome challenges, identify coping strategies and grow your potential.
(571) 554-6498 View (571) 554-6498
Photo of Brian Levine, Psychologist in Prince William County, VA
Brian Levine
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Over the past 15 years, I have developed expertise in working with teens, adults, couples, and families who are experiencing depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, reactions to trauma, attention deficits, addictions, and relationship challenges at both work and home.
By the time most people are seeking a therapist, they have been struggling with significant challenges that have not gotten better with time, effort, or the help of family and friends. As a clinical psychologist, I am passionate about connecting with people in that stuck place for which there are no easy answers and working together to find solutions. The key ingredient in my work is my capacity to establish a trusting, cooperative, confidential, safe, and non-judgmental partnership with you in which you can better understand what is going on and learn more effective ways of meeting your life's challenges.
Over the past 15 years, I have developed expertise in working with teens, adults, couples, and families who are experiencing depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, reactions to trauma, attention deficits, addictions, and relationship challenges at both work and home.
By the time most people are seeking a therapist, they have been struggling with significant challenges that have not gotten better with time, effort, or the help of family and friends. As a clinical psychologist, I am passionate about connecting with people in that stuck place for which there are no easy answers and working together to find solutions. The key ingredient in my work is my capacity to establish a trusting, cooperative, confidential, safe, and non-judgmental partnership with you in which you can better understand what is going on and learn more effective ways of meeting your life's challenges.
(703) 940-9553 x123 View (703) 940-9553 x123
Photo of Stephanie Breitenbach, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Stephanie Breitenbach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
Stephanie Breitenbach is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over ten years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family settings. Stephanie specializes in treating depression, anxiety, life challenges, and trauma. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Arizona State University and her master’s degree at Grand Canyon University.
Stephanie Breitenbach is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over ten years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family settings. Stephanie specializes in treating depression, anxiety, life challenges, and trauma. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Arizona State University and her master’s degree at Grand Canyon University.
(804) 265-4128 View (804) 265-4128
Photo of Danielle Winfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Danielle Winfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22025  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing services to individuals and couples. My expertise includes supporting military spouses and servicemembers, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals managing trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as those engaged with the criminal justice system.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing services to individuals and couples. My expertise includes supporting military spouses and servicemembers, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals managing trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as those engaged with the criminal justice system.
(571) 556-8858 View (571) 556-8858
Photo of Cara Root, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Cara Root
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
Close your eyes and imagine your life (or your child's life) as you wish it was. What is different about the life you are currently leading? Damaged relationships? Trauma? Anxiety? Depression? Grief? It can be scary and difficult to navigate life stressors, challenges, losses, and disappointments. I have worked with children, teenagers, and adults for greater than 10 years to address the barriers of their past and present that are impacting their lives and keeping them from a healthier and more enjoyable future.
Close your eyes and imagine your life (or your child's life) as you wish it was. What is different about the life you are currently leading? Damaged relationships? Trauma? Anxiety? Depression? Grief? It can be scary and difficult to navigate life stressors, challenges, losses, and disappointments. I have worked with children, teenagers, and adults for greater than 10 years to address the barriers of their past and present that are impacting their lives and keeping them from a healthier and more enjoyable future.
(540) 253-4795 View (540) 253-4795

See more therapy options for Prince William County

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.