Photo of John Michael, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
John Michael
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
I care for clients who are experiencing difficulties in relationships - including infidelity, depression, poor communication, lack of intimacy, and conflict.
I have been counseling individuals, couples, and families since 1997. I am honored to be the Managing Partner of Professional Counseling Associates in Scottsdale and Mesa, and the Founder of Lifetime Marriage, LLC. My counseling team and I work to provide compassionate, professional, and accurate care for people in need of help. My specialties include Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Marriage Restoration Intensives, Individual Counseling for struggles with anxiety, depression, addictions, and relationship stress.
I care for clients who are experiencing difficulties in relationships - including infidelity, depression, poor communication, lack of intimacy, and conflict.
I have been counseling individuals, couples, and families since 1997. I am honored to be the Managing Partner of Professional Counseling Associates in Scottsdale and Mesa, and the Founder of Lifetime Marriage, LLC. My counseling team and I work to provide compassionate, professional, and accurate care for people in need of help. My specialties include Pre-marriage and Marriage Counseling, Marriage Restoration Intensives, Individual Counseling for struggles with anxiety, depression, addictions, and relationship stress.
(480) 771-2776 View (480) 771-2776
Photo of Lisa Pearson, Psychologist in Gilbert, AZ
Lisa Pearson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! I am passionate about helping people identify the thoughts, emotions and behaviors that keep them from living their life to the fullest. Together we implement evidence based approaches based on the goals and your unique needs. I specialize in working with adults to address struggles that you are having in your life. Need help coping with anxiety or depression contact me today to set up a free 20 minute consultation.
Now accepting new clients! I am passionate about helping people identify the thoughts, emotions and behaviors that keep them from living their life to the fullest. Together we implement evidence based approaches based on the goals and your unique needs. I specialize in working with adults to address struggles that you are having in your life. Need help coping with anxiety or depression contact me today to set up a free 20 minute consultation.
(520) 341-2275 View (520) 341-2275
Photo of Santiago Ayala, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Santiago Ayala
Counselor, MSc, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Now accepting New Clients via Telemedicine! Do you know a child, adolescent or teen demonstrating symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, or any life changes? These life struggles can lead to Anxious and Depressive Symptoms (sx's) that may seem overwhelming at times. My passion is to help children and families work through depressive sx's, anxious sx's, low self-esteem sx's, grief sx's, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use. Techniques practiced are evidence-based methods with collaborative client focused processes, such as, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Now accepting New Clients via Telemedicine! Do you know a child, adolescent or teen demonstrating symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, or any life changes? These life struggles can lead to Anxious and Depressive Symptoms (sx's) that may seem overwhelming at times. My passion is to help children and families work through depressive sx's, anxious sx's, low self-esteem sx's, grief sx's, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use. Techniques practiced are evidence-based methods with collaborative client focused processes, such as, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(623) 288-4014 View (623) 288-4014
Photo of Devon Gerard, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Devon Gerard
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports clients using CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Mental Performance techniques and strategies. I have talked to several clients working in an outpatient setting, inpatient hospitalization and Crisis response within an Emergency Room/Hospital and community environments. I am willing to help you and/or your loved one manage and navigate current, past or future stressors that contribute to depression, anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, self-esteem and many more. Life can be overwhelming without the right coping skills in place.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports clients using CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Mental Performance techniques and strategies. I have talked to several clients working in an outpatient setting, inpatient hospitalization and Crisis response within an Emergency Room/Hospital and community environments. I am willing to help you and/or your loved one manage and navigate current, past or future stressors that contribute to depression, anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, self-esteem and many more. Life can be overwhelming without the right coping skills in place.
(480) 613-8778 View (480) 613-8778
Photo of Maria Talamante-Pohlmann, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Maria Talamante-Pohlmann
Counselor, MC, LPC, CYT 100
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Along with traditional client centered therapy, I use the instruction of imagery, visualization, relaxation, meditation and yoga to aid in the reduction of stress and anxiety, improve athletic and professional performance, increase self acceptance, weight management and decrease symptoms of depression.
I have been working in the counseling field with those seeking self growth and repair for over 20 years. Many clients are referred to me for my concentration on self esteem, reduction in anxiety and family relationship strengthening. Others seek my extensive experience in body image issues, eating disorders and the mind/body connection. I provide a relaxed environment where a holistic approach to healing can be best nourished through a wide range of modalities from traditional talk therapy to yoga therapy.
Along with traditional client centered therapy, I use the instruction of imagery, visualization, relaxation, meditation and yoga to aid in the reduction of stress and anxiety, improve athletic and professional performance, increase self acceptance, weight management and decrease symptoms of depression.
I have been working in the counseling field with those seeking self growth and repair for over 20 years. Many clients are referred to me for my concentration on self esteem, reduction in anxiety and family relationship strengthening. Others seek my extensive experience in body image issues, eating disorders and the mind/body connection. I provide a relaxed environment where a holistic approach to healing can be best nourished through a wide range of modalities from traditional talk therapy to yoga therapy.
(520) 549-1069 View (520) 549-1069
Photo of Keoni Sablan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Keoni Sablan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, BC-TMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I specialize in working with Catholics struggling with stress, anxiety, depression and sports performance.
As a Catholic, you are struggling to improve your marriage, family, career, performance, or spiritual life. You’re someone who desires more for yourself and those you love but still find yourself struggling to progress, feeling like your efforts never seem to move the needle, leaving you more and more burnt out. You’re feeling dissatisfied, like you're just going through the motions, but you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to understand what's tripping you up. You’re ready to learn new skills to improve. Most of all, you’re ready to live with purpose and find a sense of peace. I want to help you get there.
I specialize in working with Catholics struggling with stress, anxiety, depression and sports performance.
As a Catholic, you are struggling to improve your marriage, family, career, performance, or spiritual life. You’re someone who desires more for yourself and those you love but still find yourself struggling to progress, feeling like your efforts never seem to move the needle, leaving you more and more burnt out. You’re feeling dissatisfied, like you're just going through the motions, but you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to understand what's tripping you up. You’re ready to learn new skills to improve. Most of all, you’re ready to live with purpose and find a sense of peace. I want to help you get there.
(480) 470-8838 View (480) 470-8838
Photo of Austin Gamble in Gilbert, AZ
Austin Gamble
MEd, LASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Are you trying to push through issues in your life? Does it feel like you are not gaining traction? Where you are now is not where you have to stay. If your issue is anxiety, depression, or poor athletic performance, though these may feel overwhelming and even permanent, you have the ability to change course. Using self-reflection and evidence based counseling methods, I will work alongside you and challenge you in order to reach your goals.
Are you trying to push through issues in your life? Does it feel like you are not gaining traction? Where you are now is not where you have to stay. If your issue is anxiety, depression, or poor athletic performance, though these may feel overwhelming and even permanent, you have the ability to change course. Using self-reflection and evidence based counseling methods, I will work alongside you and challenge you in order to reach your goals.
(480) 780-1299 View (480) 780-1299
Photo of Better Starts Now, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Better Starts Now, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85233
We are currently living in a world where there is a lot of things that are happening in which we do not have control over. These circumstances can impact us directly or indirectly causing unnecessary trauma. When mental illness go unchecked it can cause underlying issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, and/or addiction.
We are currently living in a world where there is a lot of things that are happening in which we do not have control over. These circumstances can impact us directly or indirectly causing unnecessary trauma. When mental illness go unchecked it can cause underlying issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, and/or addiction.
(480) 608-9392 View (480) 608-9392
Photo of Jonathan N Weller, Psychologist in Gilbert, AZ
Jonathan N Weller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85297
I maintain a diverse practice serving adult clients (18-80+) presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not restricted to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma/abuse, relationships and family of origin issues.
My first priority is to offer a professional, safe, and comfortable environment to explore whatever concerns you may be having and to develop a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship from which to provide therapy. As a former military psychologist (2001-2006), I had very broad and diverse exposure to many mental health conditions. I quickly learned to implement a variety of approaches to address the unique needs of my clients. My aim is to provide treatment tailored specifically to each client. No two people are exactly alike and their therapy shouldn't be either. Above all, I want to help you create lasting change and improvement.
I maintain a diverse practice serving adult clients (18-80+) presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not restricted to anxiety, depression, grief, trauma/abuse, relationships and family of origin issues.
My first priority is to offer a professional, safe, and comfortable environment to explore whatever concerns you may be having and to develop a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship from which to provide therapy. As a former military psychologist (2001-2006), I had very broad and diverse exposure to many mental health conditions. I quickly learned to implement a variety of approaches to address the unique needs of my clients. My aim is to provide treatment tailored specifically to each client. No two people are exactly alike and their therapy shouldn't be either. Above all, I want to help you create lasting change and improvement.
(480) 845-0650 View (480) 845-0650
Photo of Jason M Ford, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Jason M Ford
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
I work mainly with men, and adolescent boys ranging from ages 13-18. The main concentration of my practice centers around issues such as anxiety, depression, identity issues, ADHD and sexual addiction. Most of my clients come in needing someone they can relate to and trust, who will also provide professional guidance and insight as they navigate through a myriad of difficult life situations and maladaptive behaviors.
I work mainly with men, and adolescent boys ranging from ages 13-18. The main concentration of my practice centers around issues such as anxiety, depression, identity issues, ADHD and sexual addiction. Most of my clients come in needing someone they can relate to and trust, who will also provide professional guidance and insight as they navigate through a myriad of difficult life situations and maladaptive behaviors.
(480) 771-2610 View (480) 771-2610
Photo of Adult & Adolescent Recovery Counseling, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Adult & Adolescent Recovery Counseling
Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
We are qualified to successfully treat anxiety, depression, trauma, challenges in relationships, and many more.
Here at AARC, we are dedicated to providing quality treatment that gets results. We provide individuals with the tools needed to be strong and confident about their ability to take control over their lives, and take back the power over their debilitating or undesirable moods, thoughts, and actions. One of the many rewards to providing counseling is getting to see the hope return, helping individuals recognize that they are not alone or "abnormal," and guiding people on their journey to a better life. Learn more about us by visiting www.aarctherapy.org
We are qualified to successfully treat anxiety, depression, trauma, challenges in relationships, and many more.
Here at AARC, we are dedicated to providing quality treatment that gets results. We provide individuals with the tools needed to be strong and confident about their ability to take control over their lives, and take back the power over their debilitating or undesirable moods, thoughts, and actions. One of the many rewards to providing counseling is getting to see the hope return, helping individuals recognize that they are not alone or "abnormal," and guiding people on their journey to a better life. Learn more about us by visiting www.aarctherapy.org
(602) 663-9831 View (602) 663-9831
Photo of Tony Rusch, Psychologist in Gilbert, AZ
Tony Rusch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
(602) 492-3146 View (602) 492-3146
Photo of John Jaksich, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
John Jaksich
Counselor, MA, MBA, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I treat all types of mood and personality disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and many others.
I’ve been a counselor and a coach for over a dozen years now and I have learned that to be our best, to truly make positive changes in our lives we need to address the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Our goal is the full integration of the emotional child, the intellectual adult, the physical body, and the spirit guide (soul). I believe that everyone is capable of, is in fact entitled to, a life of happiness, love, peace, and fulfillment. I utilize an integrative approach that includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), empathetic listening, mindfulness, and spirituality.
I treat all types of mood and personality disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and many others.
I’ve been a counselor and a coach for over a dozen years now and I have learned that to be our best, to truly make positive changes in our lives we need to address the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Our goal is the full integration of the emotional child, the intellectual adult, the physical body, and the spirit guide (soul). I believe that everyone is capable of, is in fact entitled to, a life of happiness, love, peace, and fulfillment. I utilize an integrative approach that includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), empathetic listening, mindfulness, and spirituality.
(602) 317-3773 View (602) 317-3773
Photo of Jeremy Gwizdalski, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Jeremy Gwizdalski
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
(480) 525-9735 View (480) 525-9735
Photo of Stephanie Robertson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Stephanie Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85233
We all struggle at one time or another with grief, excessive stress, anxiety, depression and even addiction. It has been my privilege to walk alongside my clients through their healing process. Counseling should be a place we feel safe and not judged. I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction but work with a range of issues in adolescents and adults. I am trained in EMDR therapy as well as attachment theory and have a passion for helping people find their inner strengths in order to live a happier and healthier life. I aim to empower my clients to learn to care for themselves and heal their nervous system.
We all struggle at one time or another with grief, excessive stress, anxiety, depression and even addiction. It has been my privilege to walk alongside my clients through their healing process. Counseling should be a place we feel safe and not judged. I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction but work with a range of issues in adolescents and adults. I am trained in EMDR therapy as well as attachment theory and have a passion for helping people find their inner strengths in order to live a happier and healthier life. I aim to empower my clients to learn to care for themselves and heal their nervous system.
(480) 660-3550 View (480) 660-3550
Photo of Timothy J Gartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Timothy J Gartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Regardless of challenge, whether it be trauma, family discord, marital disruption, depression, educational or life adjustments, anxiety or grief I look for ways to help my clients find meaning to elevate their purpose to find better fulfillment and joy in life.
Welcome! I am Timothy Gartz, MSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mesa, Arizona. My greatest desire is to provide a professional environment of trust in order to explore any of your challenges or life adjustments. I am a skilled therapist with 20 years of practical experience in a variety of locations and settings including private practice, broad state health clinics in Hawaii, St. Louis, and Denver as well as internationally in Hong Kong and Shanghai. These experiences allow me to provide personalized solution focused services that are culturally competent and tailor made to help you regain confidence and achieve your goals.
Regardless of challenge, whether it be trauma, family discord, marital disruption, depression, educational or life adjustments, anxiety or grief I look for ways to help my clients find meaning to elevate their purpose to find better fulfillment and joy in life.
Welcome! I am Timothy Gartz, MSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mesa, Arizona. My greatest desire is to provide a professional environment of trust in order to explore any of your challenges or life adjustments. I am a skilled therapist with 20 years of practical experience in a variety of locations and settings including private practice, broad state health clinics in Hawaii, St. Louis, and Denver as well as internationally in Hong Kong and Shanghai. These experiences allow me to provide personalized solution focused services that are culturally competent and tailor made to help you regain confidence and achieve your goals.
(520) 376-8327 View (520) 376-8327
Photo of Dr. Donna J Winsor, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Dr. Donna J Winsor
Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
It can be very difficult to take the first step to seek counseling. My intent the moment you walk through the door is for you to feel safe, cared for, listened to, and above all, understood. I am not here to judge or condemn. We all have our stuff. Life gets messy. Life can be complicated. We all need help. I am a people person, which means you have value, simply because you are. I am empathetic, I listen, I am real, and I can help.
It can be very difficult to take the first step to seek counseling. My intent the moment you walk through the door is for you to feel safe, cared for, listened to, and above all, understood. I am not here to judge or condemn. We all have our stuff. Life gets messy. Life can be complicated. We all need help. I am a people person, which means you have value, simply because you are. I am empathetic, I listen, I am real, and I can help.
(602) 641-4062 View (602) 641-4062
Photo of Josh Harrold, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Josh Harrold
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Do you feel like a prisoner in your home? Do you feel your relationship with your teen becoming toxic? Is the emotional challenges your child facing overwhelming and you have no idea how to help? Being a parent myself, I totally understand how hard parenting can be. It is be both exhausting and exhilarating, simultaneously my greatest joy and sorrow. With modern technology, easy access to drugs, identity confusion, and more, we face a generation of kids with new and unique challenges that the world has never known. However, you don't have to face this alone. Start getting the support you deserve and need. Call Bright Life Today!
Do you feel like a prisoner in your home? Do you feel your relationship with your teen becoming toxic? Is the emotional challenges your child facing overwhelming and you have no idea how to help? Being a parent myself, I totally understand how hard parenting can be. It is be both exhausting and exhilarating, simultaneously my greatest joy and sorrow. With modern technology, easy access to drugs, identity confusion, and more, we face a generation of kids with new and unique challenges that the world has never known. However, you don't have to face this alone. Start getting the support you deserve and need. Call Bright Life Today!
(480) 771-9650 View (480) 771-9650
Photo of Shelly Schultz Kona Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Shelly Schultz Kona Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
NOW Accepting New Clients! We have 15+ open spots this coming week. My Name is Shelly Schultz, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I own and operate Kona Counseling. I'm very proud and excited about the services we're able to provide in Arizona. We currently have 14 therapists with diverse backgrounds and various specialties that can meet almost anyone's needs. We have therapists that work with toddlers, children, teens, and adults. We also offer individual, couples, and family therapy.
NOW Accepting New Clients! We have 15+ open spots this coming week. My Name is Shelly Schultz, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I own and operate Kona Counseling. I'm very proud and excited about the services we're able to provide in Arizona. We currently have 14 therapists with diverse backgrounds and various specialties that can meet almost anyone's needs. We have therapists that work with toddlers, children, teens, and adults. We also offer individual, couples, and family therapy.
(602) 560-9278 View (602) 560-9278
Photo of Shelly Schultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Shelly Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295  (Online Only)
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS** Sometimes life can be overwhelming, overbearing, and down right difficult. You’re not alone in your struggle. It’s helpful to have a professional with you to figure it all out. Everyones life has purpose, meaning, and a capacity for joy. I strive to create a compassionate environment that inspires hope. Where people feel important, valued, understood, and welcomed. Then we can work together to challenge the thought patterns and emotional limitations we may put on ourselves.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS** Sometimes life can be overwhelming, overbearing, and down right difficult. You’re not alone in your struggle. It’s helpful to have a professional with you to figure it all out. Everyones life has purpose, meaning, and a capacity for joy. I strive to create a compassionate environment that inspires hope. Where people feel important, valued, understood, and welcomed. Then we can work together to challenge the thought patterns and emotional limitations we may put on ourselves.
(480) 378-0594 View (480) 378-0594
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.