Therapists in Fairfax, VA
Emily Laing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
I am especially experienced in addressing anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
My goal in therapy is to hold a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their inner lives and make day-to-day life better, one step at a time. I utilize a variety of evidenced-based approaches, including cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I help clients connect their mind and body when it comes to healing from traumatic and difficult life experiences. My clients report that connecting the mind and body promote a greater sense of goundedness and authenticity.
I am especially experienced in addressing anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
My goal in therapy is to hold a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their inner lives and make day-to-day life better, one step at a time. I utilize a variety of evidenced-based approaches, including cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I help clients connect their mind and body when it comes to healing from traumatic and difficult life experiences. My clients report that connecting the mind and body promote a greater sense of goundedness and authenticity.
Kellee Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030 (Online Only)
Do you want to reach me directly? Use my website. I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood issues, relationship issues and difficult life transitions to find healthy ways to face their stressors and conflicts. Therapy is a collaborative process in which we will work together to identify both sustainable and meaningful ways to influence change in your life. I have both a strength-based and solution focused approach to the therapy process and I value supporting people of all backgrounds to achieve their goals in therapy.
Do you want to reach me directly? Use my website. I support adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood issues, relationship issues and difficult life transitions to find healthy ways to face their stressors and conflicts. Therapy is a collaborative process in which we will work together to identify both sustainable and meaningful ways to influence change in your life. I have both a strength-based and solution focused approach to the therapy process and I value supporting people of all backgrounds to achieve their goals in therapy.
Vanguard Therapy, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
Do you feel alone and unsure of your purpose in life? Are you always feeling anxious or depressed? Do you find that living life and getting out of bed daily is a struggle and oftentimes impossible? I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing,and non-judgemental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings and explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter.
Do you feel alone and unsure of your purpose in life? Are you always feeling anxious or depressed? Do you find that living life and getting out of bed daily is a struggle and oftentimes impossible? I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing,and non-judgemental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings and explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter.
Alan Pachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
The focus of my practice is to help people manage and cope better, and to help them understand themselves better in the process. I find it incredibly gratifying to be part of the healing and growth process that defines the psychotherapy experience. My patients work on relationship issues, substance abuse issues, work issues, depression and anxiety issues, and developmental issues having to do with the ever changing demands on all of us as we get older. I also work with couples and families, with particular emphasis on adolescence and young adulthood in the family work that I do.
The focus of my practice is to help people manage and cope better, and to help them understand themselves better in the process. I find it incredibly gratifying to be part of the healing and growth process that defines the psychotherapy experience. My patients work on relationship issues, substance abuse issues, work issues, depression and anxiety issues, and developmental issues having to do with the ever changing demands on all of us as we get older. I also work with couples and families, with particular emphasis on adolescence and young adulthood in the family work that I do.
Claire Bartick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22032
I help people with anxiety/depression, grief & loss, people coping with a Cluster B personality disorder, & couples facing infertility & other issues.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialize in psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. People often come to me because, despite their efforts to change, they end up in the same cycles...cycles of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, relationship struggles, isolation, procrastination, workaholism...the list goes on and on. People often wonder "why can't I just change?" These cycles of behavior are driven by our life experiences and sense of ourself and others. Together, we will explore these ideas so that you can begin to create newer positive cycles of peace, calm, joy, contentment, intimacy, health, and fulfillment.
I help people with anxiety/depression, grief & loss, people coping with a Cluster B personality disorder, & couples facing infertility & other issues.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I specialize in psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. People often come to me because, despite their efforts to change, they end up in the same cycles...cycles of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, relationship struggles, isolation, procrastination, workaholism...the list goes on and on. People often wonder "why can't I just change?" These cycles of behavior are driven by our life experiences and sense of ourself and others. Together, we will explore these ideas so that you can begin to create newer positive cycles of peace, calm, joy, contentment, intimacy, health, and fulfillment.
Sally Harney
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you a teen (12+) or an adult struggling with the following: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, understanding social cues, self-esteem, self-assertiveness, trauma, transgender transition, gender questioning/dysphoria and/or general life stressors and transitions? These are the issues that I work on the most with my clients. Everyone has a different mix of issues or person struggles. I tailor your psychotherapy sessions to support your needs. Together, we can work through the "muck," identify unhealthy coping strategies, and get you on the road to mental wellness.
Are you a teen (12+) or an adult struggling with the following: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, understanding social cues, self-esteem, self-assertiveness, trauma, transgender transition, gender questioning/dysphoria and/or general life stressors and transitions? These are the issues that I work on the most with my clients. Everyone has a different mix of issues or person struggles. I tailor your psychotherapy sessions to support your needs. Together, we can work through the "muck," identify unhealthy coping strategies, and get you on the road to mental wellness.
Danielle Wade
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RIC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I provide evidence based interventions, personalized therapeutic services, and highly supportive counseling to clients experiencing Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, Grief/Loss, Depression and more.
Are you going through a difficult time and unsure how to navigate it? Are you looking for a safe space to vent and be free to express yourself? Are you struggling with “societal norms?” Are you and your partner in need of additional support or guidance? If any of these questions apply to you, I would love to assist with your therapeutic journey today. My top priorities are empowerment, acceptance, inclusivity and growth. I offer a safe, culturally sensitive space for you to be vulnerable, validation of your feelings and experiences, and support in managing your emotions..
I provide evidence based interventions, personalized therapeutic services, and highly supportive counseling to clients experiencing Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, Grief/Loss, Depression and more.
Are you going through a difficult time and unsure how to navigate it? Are you looking for a safe space to vent and be free to express yourself? Are you struggling with “societal norms?” Are you and your partner in need of additional support or guidance? If any of these questions apply to you, I would love to assist with your therapeutic journey today. My top priorities are empowerment, acceptance, inclusivity and growth. I offer a safe, culturally sensitive space for you to be vulnerable, validation of your feelings and experiences, and support in managing your emotions..
Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
Tanya K Hull
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a clinical supervisor for LPC residents, and supervisor for play therapy certification to become an RPT. A strong focus in family systems and internal family systems. I actively include parents and families in the treatment process. Also, a specialty with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I pull from treatment protocols that include CBT, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. I have a background in substance abuse counseling and value meeting a client where they are in strengths and struggles. I value a safe therapeutic environment and strong therapeutic relationship for success in therapy.
I am a clinical supervisor for LPC residents, and supervisor for play therapy certification to become an RPT. A strong focus in family systems and internal family systems. I actively include parents and families in the treatment process. Also, a specialty with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I pull from treatment protocols that include CBT, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. I have a background in substance abuse counseling and value meeting a client where they are in strengths and struggles. I value a safe therapeutic environment and strong therapeutic relationship for success in therapy.
Aurora Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, personal identity, life changes, relationships, family and loss.
EMAIL is the fastest way to connect. I am an LPC with years of experience working with a diverse population of children, adolescents and adults in various settings: community counseling centers, therapeutic day schools, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, university clinic, and private practice settings. I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Indiana University and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University.
Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, personal identity, life changes, relationships, family and loss.
EMAIL is the fastest way to connect. I am an LPC with years of experience working with a diverse population of children, adolescents and adults in various settings: community counseling centers, therapeutic day schools, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, university clinic, and private practice settings. I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Indiana University and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University.
Jenna L Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031 (Online Only)
"You may have a fresh start any time you choose, for this thing we call 'failure' is not the falling down, but the staying down." - Mary Pickford. I specialize in working with adolescents, families, and couples who are experiencing issues related to trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression and military issues. I help clients recognize thought patterns that are destructive to themselves and their relationships so that they can create a new version of themselves by increasing their self esteem, self worth, and by giving them strategies to overcome.
"You may have a fresh start any time you choose, for this thing we call 'failure' is not the falling down, but the staying down." - Mary Pickford. I specialize in working with adolescents, families, and couples who are experiencing issues related to trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression and military issues. I help clients recognize thought patterns that are destructive to themselves and their relationships so that they can create a new version of themselves by increasing their self esteem, self worth, and by giving them strategies to overcome.
15 Second Videos
Vanguard Therapy, LLC.
Sally Harney
Danielle M Causley
Jackie Sargent
Erica Cornelius
Marigold Counseling Services, LLC
Matt Christian
Nicole Campbell
Caitlin Gendron Experienced Resident Accepting New Clients!
David Tsveer
Open Mind Health
Thrive Therapy Center, LLC
Sarah Hagen
Claire D Felps
Behavioral Health Therapy & Consulting
Phyllis (Martin) Fortunato
Anne Edwards
Eleanor Bryant
Tiffany Parkes-Moscova
Thomas I Knedler
Alexis Melville (She Her)
Kevin J. Roche
Dr. Goldberg and Associates
Jacintha Carson
Kami Barbour
Jessica Ellin Schladt
Evergreen Behavioral Health - taking new clients
Cecilia Bañales Racine
Sandhya Sharma
Dana Harron
Debra Rezendes
Leannah Farbotko
Unique Jordan
Irene Ilachinski
Christina Tosto
Victoria (Torie) Rohr
Meghan Robinson
Alanna Betts
Daniel Floyd
Julia Bettge Counseling, LLC
Valine Ripes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, experiencing low self-esteem, struggling with life transitions or an eating disorder? I am passionate in working with teens, college students and adults. I strive to empower those with a willingness to change. Therapy is a journey and my job is to help you acknowledge your successes and accompany you through those moments where you feel stuck, because you do not have to go at it alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, experiencing low self-esteem, struggling with life transitions or an eating disorder? I am passionate in working with teens, college students and adults. I strive to empower those with a willingness to change. Therapy is a journey and my job is to help you acknowledge your successes and accompany you through those moments where you feel stuck, because you do not have to go at it alone.
Andrea Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
True Light Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
We all may experience everyday challenges in personal relationships, employment, and life transitions, resulting in stress, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other symptoms preventing us from living a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Part of it is that we are not aligned and instead we are stuck repeating patterns and holding to negative perceptions about ourselves and the world. I work under the premise that each individual has the capacity to heal old wounds by FINDING MEANING TO LIVED EVENTS, ADAPTING, TRANSFORMING, and FINDING BALANCE in life.
We all may experience everyday challenges in personal relationships, employment, and life transitions, resulting in stress, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other symptoms preventing us from living a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Part of it is that we are not aligned and instead we are stuck repeating patterns and holding to negative perceptions about ourselves and the world. I work under the premise that each individual has the capacity to heal old wounds by FINDING MEANING TO LIVED EVENTS, ADAPTING, TRANSFORMING, and FINDING BALANCE in life.
Vicki Kirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Whether the individual is seeking healing from trauma, depression, anxiety or support with sexuality, career or spiritual issues, the Relational Approach best characterizes the way that I meet each client and partner with them to first identify her/his goals and then take steps to actualize that goal.
I am passionate about working with individuals to help them uncover their unique, vital selves in relation to others and the world. I come to my practice with a toolbox approach of methods and strengths including EMDR, DBT and relational psychodynamic psychotherapy. With empathy and insight, I meet the client where they are and support them in their process of therapy and life. I am also Director of the MSW Program, Associate Professor, Dept. of Social Work at George Mason University.
Whether the individual is seeking healing from trauma, depression, anxiety or support with sexuality, career or spiritual issues, the Relational Approach best characterizes the way that I meet each client and partner with them to first identify her/his goals and then take steps to actualize that goal.
I am passionate about working with individuals to help them uncover their unique, vital selves in relation to others and the world. I come to my practice with a toolbox approach of methods and strengths including EMDR, DBT and relational psychodynamic psychotherapy. With empathy and insight, I meet the client where they are and support them in their process of therapy and life. I am also Director of the MSW Program, Associate Professor, Dept. of Social Work at George Mason University.
Vanessa Quiroz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, addiction, mood disorders, and life adjustments.
Life is inherently uncertain, marked by constant change—relocation, new diagnoses, parenthood—each evoking a spectrum of emotions. Navigating these challenges without the right knowledge or tools can feel overwhelming. This is where therapy serves as a guiding light. My objective is to cultivate emotional well-being and personal growth, considering all facets of life through a person-centered, multicultural approach. Acknowledging the uniqueness of each client, I tailor my approach to their individual strengths and abilities, rejecting the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution.
I have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, addiction, mood disorders, and life adjustments.
Life is inherently uncertain, marked by constant change—relocation, new diagnoses, parenthood—each evoking a spectrum of emotions. Navigating these challenges without the right knowledge or tools can feel overwhelming. This is where therapy serves as a guiding light. My objective is to cultivate emotional well-being and personal growth, considering all facets of life through a person-centered, multicultural approach. Acknowledging the uniqueness of each client, I tailor my approach to their individual strengths and abilities, rejecting the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution.
Madisen Moody
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
I also have training with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, ect.
I attended Marymount University for graduate school where she graduated a year early with a focus in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Madisen‘s specialties include Severe Mental Illness and Trauma related disorders. What is Severe Mental Illness (SMI) and Forensic populations, you may ask? SMI includes Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Bipolar Disorders, etc. Madisen also enjoys working with the forensically connected populations, specifically, those adjudicated Not Guilty by Reasonable Insanity (NGRI) and Unrestorably Incompetent to Stand Trial (URIST).
I also have training with depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, ect.
I attended Marymount University for graduate school where she graduated a year early with a focus in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Madisen‘s specialties include Severe Mental Illness and Trauma related disorders. What is Severe Mental Illness (SMI) and Forensic populations, you may ask? SMI includes Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Bipolar Disorders, etc. Madisen also enjoys working with the forensically connected populations, specifically, those adjudicated Not Guilty by Reasonable Insanity (NGRI) and Unrestorably Incompetent to Stand Trial (URIST).
Danielle M Causley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I offer both individual and group therapy to give your child the skills they need to navigate life and manage anxiety and depression.
Are you concerned that your child is worrying too much or their sadness is overwhelming them? It is painful to see your child nervous, isolated, unhappy, and alone. You may be worried that your teen is hurting but they will not open up to you. You know your teen should be active and engaged in a social life but they spend most of their time at home or on their electronic devices. Maybe your home life has become stressful and consumed with conflict and stress. You are sure that therapy is a good idea but you have no idea on how to convince them to try it out.
I offer both individual and group therapy to give your child the skills they need to navigate life and manage anxiety and depression.
Are you concerned that your child is worrying too much or their sadness is overwhelming them? It is painful to see your child nervous, isolated, unhappy, and alone. You may be worried that your teen is hurting but they will not open up to you. You know your teen should be active and engaged in a social life but they spend most of their time at home or on their electronic devices. Maybe your home life has become stressful and consumed with conflict and stress. You are sure that therapy is a good idea but you have no idea on how to convince them to try it out.
Laurentia Ruby, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Using this approach, I have successfully helped adults, college students and high school students with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, and career/academic concerns.
People come to therapy looking for solutions to real-world problems. My therapeutic approach is interactive, strength-based and practical. Using empathy, humor, and an objective perspective, I will collaborate with you to develop an effective, down-to-earth approach to your current life challenges, as well as long-standing personal concerns. My job is to assist you in using your own self-knowledge to draw on your unique strengths and personal resources to respond to your challenges. We'll work together to put problems into a workable perspective and to create a realistic plan for addressing those problems.
Using this approach, I have successfully helped adults, college students and high school students with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, and career/academic concerns.
People come to therapy looking for solutions to real-world problems. My therapeutic approach is interactive, strength-based and practical. Using empathy, humor, and an objective perspective, I will collaborate with you to develop an effective, down-to-earth approach to your current life challenges, as well as long-standing personal concerns. My job is to assist you in using your own self-knowledge to draw on your unique strengths and personal resources to respond to your challenges. We'll work together to put problems into a workable perspective and to create a realistic plan for addressing those problems.
Serene Solutions Counseling & Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Our therapists combined experience includes working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief & loss, domestic violence, and relationship/family difficulties.
Are you dealing with anxiety, stress, feeling overwhelmed, work issues or life changes? At Serene Solutions Counseling & Consulting Services we seek to understand each client’s outlook and perspective to meet each client where they are and help them get to where they want to be. We provide individual, couples and family counseling via video sessions and Sharnece Thomas also offers in person sessions.
Our therapists combined experience includes working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief & loss, domestic violence, and relationship/family difficulties.
Are you dealing with anxiety, stress, feeling overwhelmed, work issues or life changes? At Serene Solutions Counseling & Consulting Services we seek to understand each client’s outlook and perspective to meet each client where they are and help them get to where they want to be. We provide individual, couples and family counseling via video sessions and Sharnece Thomas also offers in person sessions.
See more therapy options for Fairfax
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Fairfax
- Annandale
- Burke
- Centreville
- Chantilly
- Clifton
- Fairfax Station
- Merrifield
- North Springfield
- Oakton
- Springfield
- Vienna
- West Springfield
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.