Depression Therapists in Chapel Hill, NC

Photo of Matthew Varnell, Psychologist in Chapel Hill, NC
Matthew Varnell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27515
Not accepting new clients
While I have worked with a large variety of patients and presenting problems, I specialize in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, sexuality, spirituality, creativity, and relationships.
What do I do for a living? I meet with people and talk about the most intimate aspect of their lives. It's not a bad job and I love the work I get to do. While I often draw from a variety of psychological techniques, I am firmly rooted in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic theory which is a really fancy way of saying I believe authentic relationships bring about sincere change in people. As such, I work hard to create a trusting, comfortable space to help clients explore their goals and experience sincere growth.
While I have worked with a large variety of patients and presenting problems, I specialize in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, sexuality, spirituality, creativity, and relationships.
What do I do for a living? I meet with people and talk about the most intimate aspect of their lives. It's not a bad job and I love the work I get to do. While I often draw from a variety of psychological techniques, I am firmly rooted in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic theory which is a really fancy way of saying I believe authentic relationships bring about sincere change in people. As such, I work hard to create a trusting, comfortable space to help clients explore their goals and experience sincere growth.
(707) 657-4367 View (707) 657-4367
Photo of Francesca Nicole Morfesis, Psychological Associate in Chapel Hill, NC
Francesca Nicole Morfesis
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
My love is helping people learn to navigate the terrain of the body and to find the wisdom and freedom of feeling and ‘sensing’ as ways of knowing and healing. This domain is difficult to navigate alone - We live in a time when our nervous systems are deeply taxed and carry significant trauma, and in which the cultural resources for healing have been repressed or lost under the weight of systems of oppression. I want to help you find your way back to a sense of wholeness by listening to your innate wisdom. Please note- I only accept clients who have some form of contemplative practice because it creates a foundation for our work!
My love is helping people learn to navigate the terrain of the body and to find the wisdom and freedom of feeling and ‘sensing’ as ways of knowing and healing. This domain is difficult to navigate alone - We live in a time when our nervous systems are deeply taxed and carry significant trauma, and in which the cultural resources for healing have been repressed or lost under the weight of systems of oppression. I want to help you find your way back to a sense of wholeness by listening to your innate wisdom. Please note- I only accept clients who have some form of contemplative practice because it creates a foundation for our work!
(919) 759-5384 View (919) 759-5384
Photo of Kevin J Ryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Kevin J Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
The clients I see most often present issues of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, grief or loss and marital or relationship conflicts.
My approach Integrative Psychotherapy draws primarily from Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Insight Meditation. It is my experience that people make changes in their lives in therapy when they feel appropriately supported and understood. This combined with awareness developed through mindfulness practices enables people to take the insights cultivated in therapy sessions and implement them in their lives. I see therapy as an opportunity to explore how our thoughts and perceptions about our life situations, determine the quality of how we experience our lives. Our self-perceptions developed throughout our lives, are often our greatest impediment to changing our lives.
(828) 547-3620 View (828) 547-3620
Photo of Present Therapy, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Chapel Hill, NC
Present Therapy
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, NC, LCMHCA, 19045
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
If you are anxious, depressed, angry, or uncertain, let me help ignite the light of joy and self-empowerment that is within you.
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
If you are anxious, depressed, angry, or uncertain, let me help ignite the light of joy and self-empowerment that is within you.
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
(919) 893-0195 View (919) 893-0195
Photo of Katie Pape, Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Katie Pape
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Waitlist for new clients
Currently on a waitlist. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins through a holistic and personalized approach. I am a dedicated therapist committed to supporting teens and adults on their journey to mental well-being. My therapeutic philosophy revolves around the integration of self-compassion, art therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and nature-based interventions. In our virtual and in-office sessions, I provide a warm and nurturing environment for individuals seeking relief from the burdens of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
Currently on a waitlist. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins through a holistic and personalized approach. I am a dedicated therapist committed to supporting teens and adults on their journey to mental well-being. My therapeutic philosophy revolves around the integration of self-compassion, art therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and nature-based interventions. In our virtual and in-office sessions, I provide a warm and nurturing environment for individuals seeking relief from the burdens of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
(919) 873-4452 View (919) 873-4452
Photo of Anna Hix Rodenfels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chapel Hill, NC
Anna Hix Rodenfels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I understand the strength it takes to start therapy and believe in meeting clients where they are. I am passionate about helping clients learn how to identify and tolerate difficult emotions, how to set individual and relationship boundaries, and how to grow toward self-acceptance. I create a space for clients to feel supported, heard, and empowered as they move toward healing and change. I am LGBTQIA+ and friendly and approach all clients with empathy and compassion.
I understand the strength it takes to start therapy and believe in meeting clients where they are. I am passionate about helping clients learn how to identify and tolerate difficult emotions, how to set individual and relationship boundaries, and how to grow toward self-acceptance. I create a space for clients to feel supported, heard, and empowered as they move toward healing and change. I am LGBTQIA+ and friendly and approach all clients with empathy and compassion.
(919) 246-9444 View (919) 246-9444
Photo of Christopher Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chapel Hill, NC
Christopher Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Psychotherapy is a collaborative experience in which you take an in-depth look at your life, perspectives and behaviors and explore what may or may not be working with a trained professional. Each individual experiences life in one's own unique way, with one's own set of personal values and goals. Sometimes life circumstances can create a conflict with a person's values. Sometimes people try their best and cannot change the way they feel. "Good people" can experience depression, anxiety, anger, grief, substance abuse, trauma and other circumstances, which, with the assistance of a trained professional, can be resolved.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative experience in which you take an in-depth look at your life, perspectives and behaviors and explore what may or may not be working with a trained professional. Each individual experiences life in one's own unique way, with one's own set of personal values and goals. Sometimes life circumstances can create a conflict with a person's values. Sometimes people try their best and cannot change the way they feel. "Good people" can experience depression, anxiety, anger, grief, substance abuse, trauma and other circumstances, which, with the assistance of a trained professional, can be resolved.
(919) 249-7217 View (919) 249-7217
Photo of Anna Conway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chapel Hill, NC
Anna Conway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Not accepting new clients
I recognize how challenging and uncomfortable it can be to reach out for professional support, and the importance of feeling understood and validated without judgement. I value a holistic approach to wellness – mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and relational - and am committed to providing support which welcomes and honors all parts of you. Through collaborative work together, I strive to provide an atmosphere of warmth and safety where your personal wellness goals can be addressed and achieved. I value the opportunity to work with you and look forward to speaking soon!
I recognize how challenging and uncomfortable it can be to reach out for professional support, and the importance of feeling understood and validated without judgement. I value a holistic approach to wellness – mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and relational - and am committed to providing support which welcomes and honors all parts of you. Through collaborative work together, I strive to provide an atmosphere of warmth and safety where your personal wellness goals can be addressed and achieved. I value the opportunity to work with you and look forward to speaking soon!
(919) 800-0960 View (919) 800-0960
Photo of Kristin Dewan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Kristin Dewan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am passionate about helping people—those who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, identity exploration, and addiction.
Your first step toward change may be frightening, but a safe counseling environment can offer the needed support as you work on improving your mood, relationships, and overall outlook on life. Seeking counseling is courageous and prepares your path toward healing. Remember, you are worthy! I have been a counselor since 2019 and have offered individual counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults. Most recently, I have counseled adults struggling with addiction. In therapeutic relationships, I help clients understand and begin the self-healing process and give them the necessary tools to find their path.
I am passionate about helping people—those who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, identity exploration, and addiction.
Your first step toward change may be frightening, but a safe counseling environment can offer the needed support as you work on improving your mood, relationships, and overall outlook on life. Seeking counseling is courageous and prepares your path toward healing. Remember, you are worthy! I have been a counselor since 2019 and have offered individual counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults. Most recently, I have counseled adults struggling with addiction. In therapeutic relationships, I help clients understand and begin the self-healing process and give them the necessary tools to find their path.
(919) 739-4536 View (919) 739-4536
Photo of Kelly K Jerome, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Kelly K Jerome
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients - I believe we all possess an innate wisdom that allows us to live in a state of flow, safety and healthy relationships. Life challenges, trauma, loss, and stressful transitions can often dampen our flow, showing up as anxious thoughts, panic attacks, depressed mood, or feeling unsafe or alone. During these seasons, we may feel highly activated or impulsive, or alternately listless, numb, or disconnected from ourselves and others. Sometimes reaching out for support during such moments feels immensely difficult, and yet I believe the power of connection can help return us to our inherent wisdom and flow.
Accepting New Clients - I believe we all possess an innate wisdom that allows us to live in a state of flow, safety and healthy relationships. Life challenges, trauma, loss, and stressful transitions can often dampen our flow, showing up as anxious thoughts, panic attacks, depressed mood, or feeling unsafe or alone. During these seasons, we may feel highly activated or impulsive, or alternately listless, numb, or disconnected from ourselves and others. Sometimes reaching out for support during such moments feels immensely difficult, and yet I believe the power of connection can help return us to our inherent wisdom and flow.
(919) 642-3408 View (919) 642-3408
Photo of Madeline Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chapel Hill, NC
Madeline Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I specialize in working with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My style of therapy offers a non-judgmental space to explore your feelings and process your experiences and emotions. I am a mixed bilingual Latina licensed clinical social worker. My background includes working with children, teens, and families doing in-home and school-based therapy. I like to use a trauma-informed perspective along with mindfulness and motivational interviewing to guide clients through their journey to healing. My goal is to find the right combination of treatment that works best for you and empower you along the way.
I specialize in working with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My style of therapy offers a non-judgmental space to explore your feelings and process your experiences and emotions. I am a mixed bilingual Latina licensed clinical social worker. My background includes working with children, teens, and families doing in-home and school-based therapy. I like to use a trauma-informed perspective along with mindfulness and motivational interviewing to guide clients through their journey to healing. My goal is to find the right combination of treatment that works best for you and empower you along the way.
(919) 298-8708 View (919) 298-8708
Photo of Jacob Long, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Jacob Long
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am a psychodynamically-oriented psychotherapist that works with individuals experiencing relational difficulties and/or disruptions in their overall sense of self. Such concerns result in emerging or worsening psychological symptoms that are painful and difficult to manage. In addressing underlying mental conflicts and their associated compromises, I work with people to get behind their symptoms with the goal of developing more insight, self-agency, and a fuller life.
I am a psychodynamically-oriented psychotherapist that works with individuals experiencing relational difficulties and/or disruptions in their overall sense of self. Such concerns result in emerging or worsening psychological symptoms that are painful and difficult to manage. In addressing underlying mental conflicts and their associated compromises, I work with people to get behind their symptoms with the goal of developing more insight, self-agency, and a fuller life.
(919) 939-2399 View (919) 939-2399
Photo of Karen Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chapel Hill, NC
Karen Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
As a clinician, I embrace a strength-based approach and I borrow from many different cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy theories. I believe that building a positive therapeutic relationship is of great importance in the therapeutic process and that our time together should feel supportive and safe. I utilize dialogue, psychoeducation, relaxation/ mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts and positive decision making.
As a clinician, I embrace a strength-based approach and I borrow from many different cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy theories. I believe that building a positive therapeutic relationship is of great importance in the therapeutic process and that our time together should feel supportive and safe. I utilize dialogue, psychoeducation, relaxation/ mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts and positive decision making.
(910) 387-0623 View (910) 387-0623
Photo of Zena Chase, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Zena Chase
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
I have worked with children and adults from all walks of life who struggle with chronic illnesses, loss, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Eating Disorders, Substance Use, Couples & Family therapies.
I’m very passionate about helping people, and celebrating their courageous strides. It takes courage to seek counseling, and courage to trust the process. I strive to create a partnership that is therapeutic in nature, and intentional in effort. It is with that intention, courage, and partnership that I assist my clients’ in reaching therapeutic goals, accepting and achieving growth, increasing awareness, and fostering resilience.
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Photo of Brad Heinz, Psychologist in Chapel Hill, NC
Brad Heinz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Many persons I see are exploring spirituality for their personal growth and deeper understanding of themselves and their difficulties. They increasingly sense the limiting nature of the fear based ego. An ego that can limit or sabotage their choices and relationships. Yet a clear steady path from stubborn ego patterns to their authentic self can be elusive. I draw from Eastern teachings, meditation practices, the Enneagram, ACIM, and the Hawkin's map of consciousness for this path. I emphasize emotional mindfulness and the intuition that arises in the Silence and stillness of meditation to recognize Spirit in oneself and others.
Many persons I see are exploring spirituality for their personal growth and deeper understanding of themselves and their difficulties. They increasingly sense the limiting nature of the fear based ego. An ego that can limit or sabotage their choices and relationships. Yet a clear steady path from stubborn ego patterns to their authentic self can be elusive. I draw from Eastern teachings, meditation practices, the Enneagram, ACIM, and the Hawkin's map of consciousness for this path. I emphasize emotional mindfulness and the intuition that arises in the Silence and stillness of meditation to recognize Spirit in oneself and others.
(984) 214-4616 View (984) 214-4616
Photo of Shawn W Moffitt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Shawn W Moffitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Not accepting new clients
Whether you are struggling with emotional challenges, trauma, addiction, or difficult life transitions and circumstances, you do not have to navigate the journey alone. I support clients in reaching their personal goals through a collaborative, therapeutic partnership and a customized plan of treatment. My philosophy is that my clients have an innate ability to heal from their challenges, as well as to grow and develop in positive ways throughout their lives. This is accomplished through building on personal strengths and abilities to achieve health and balance in all areas of life.
Whether you are struggling with emotional challenges, trauma, addiction, or difficult life transitions and circumstances, you do not have to navigate the journey alone. I support clients in reaching their personal goals through a collaborative, therapeutic partnership and a customized plan of treatment. My philosophy is that my clients have an innate ability to heal from their challenges, as well as to grow and develop in positive ways throughout their lives. This is accomplished through building on personal strengths and abilities to achieve health and balance in all areas of life.
(919) 324-6868 View (919) 324-6868
Photo of Lauren A Formy-Duval, Psychologist in Chapel Hill, NC
Lauren A Formy-Duval
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Not accepting new clients
My practice welcomes clients of all ages and backgrounds. I provide psychotherapy to adults and adolescents, and I also specialize in early childhood work, conducting parent therapy often combined with play therapy with children. My therapeutic approach is largely influenced by insight-oriented psychodynamic and systemic approaches. With this approach I strive to help you find underlying causes for problematic symptoms or patterns of behavior and why they may persist in your life. I believe that through this exploration and discovery you are freed to make different life choices and can lead a more balanced life.
My practice welcomes clients of all ages and backgrounds. I provide psychotherapy to adults and adolescents, and I also specialize in early childhood work, conducting parent therapy often combined with play therapy with children. My therapeutic approach is largely influenced by insight-oriented psychodynamic and systemic approaches. With this approach I strive to help you find underlying causes for problematic symptoms or patterns of behavior and why they may persist in your life. I believe that through this exploration and discovery you are freed to make different life choices and can lead a more balanced life.
(919) 475-9629 View (919) 475-9629
Photo of Vanessa M. Talley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chapel Hill, NC
Vanessa M. Talley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
I am humbled by the work done collaboratively with individuals while helping them reach their goals. Healing is a journey, and I am here to assist you in becoming a Happier, Healthier, and more Whole version of yourself. Clients who are ready for change, and the work it takes, reach out to me. Have you ever wondered how to overcome the trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety that prevents you from living your best possible life? If your answer is "yes," let's connect. I specialize in treatments that can help.
I am humbled by the work done collaboratively with individuals while helping them reach their goals. Healing is a journey, and I am here to assist you in becoming a Happier, Healthier, and more Whole version of yourself. Clients who are ready for change, and the work it takes, reach out to me. Have you ever wondered how to overcome the trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety that prevents you from living your best possible life? If your answer is "yes," let's connect. I specialize in treatments that can help.
(919) 877-6495 View (919) 877-6495
Photo of Tailored Brain Health, Psychologist in Chapel Hill, NC
Tailored Brain Health
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Are you a so-called empath, overachiever, perfectionist or riddled with anxiety? Has life all just become a little too much and you need some space to process it? Boy, isn’t that the truth. Do you or someone you love have a brain health challenge? Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury/concussion, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, ADHD, problems with concentration or memory? Good news. I’m a board-certified neuropsychologist and we can handle that together. I know what these challenges mean - scientifically, and how they affect your day-to-day and relationships.
Are you a so-called empath, overachiever, perfectionist or riddled with anxiety? Has life all just become a little too much and you need some space to process it? Boy, isn’t that the truth. Do you or someone you love have a brain health challenge? Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury/concussion, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, ADHD, problems with concentration or memory? Good news. I’m a board-certified neuropsychologist and we can handle that together. I know what these challenges mean - scientifically, and how they affect your day-to-day and relationships.
(336) 739-6079 View (336) 739-6079
Photo of Brian Purnell, Counselor in Chapel Hill, NC
Brian Purnell
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, ACS, EAS-C, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that maybe hurting from divorce, grief, blended families and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well.
Journey Through Life, PLLC sees all kinds of families that maybe hurting from divorce, grief, blended families and broken relationships. In addition, the practice specializes in significant and marital relationships. The ideal is for a family that may not have the skills to see past the forest, but will be open to the infinite possibilities. Individual, Group Clinical Supervision, and Parenting Workshops are offered at the practice as well.
(919) 267-2483 View (919) 267-2483

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.