Therapists in Saint Louis Park, MN

Photo of Steven Erhart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis Park, MN
Steven Erhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-CO, LPCC-MN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416  (Online Only)
Now providing on-line therapy to residence in Minnesota (Self-Pay only) and Colorado (Insurance and Self-Pay) . With over two decades of experience as a mental health therapist, I work with those struggling with life concerns that are keeping them from being the person they truly long to be. Specializing in treatment of abuse and trauma to self-worth, identity, sex therapy, depression, stress, and/or relationship issues.
Now providing on-line therapy to residence in Minnesota (Self-Pay only) and Colorado (Insurance and Self-Pay) . With over two decades of experience as a mental health therapist, I work with those struggling with life concerns that are keeping them from being the person they truly long to be. Specializing in treatment of abuse and trauma to self-worth, identity, sex therapy, depression, stress, and/or relationship issues.
(612) 482-5525 View (612) 482-5525
Photo of Margaret Stearns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Margaret Stearns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Do you worry a lot or always assume the worst is going to happen? How about your tendency to be a "people-pleaser," causing a lack of confidence in setting healthy boundaries with others for fear you will disappoint them? Is trauma from your past negatively affecting your daily life or creating self-sabotaging behavior in your relationships? Anxiety, stress, depression, and lack of life balance are so common today. If you can relate to any of this, you are not alone and you don't need to struggle in silence. I am hear to help.
Now accepting new clients! Do you worry a lot or always assume the worst is going to happen? How about your tendency to be a "people-pleaser," causing a lack of confidence in setting healthy boundaries with others for fear you will disappoint them? Is trauma from your past negatively affecting your daily life or creating self-sabotaging behavior in your relationships? Anxiety, stress, depression, and lack of life balance are so common today. If you can relate to any of this, you are not alone and you don't need to struggle in silence. I am hear to help.
(952) 314-5387 View (952) 314-5387
Photo of Heather Johnson, PsyD, LP, Psychologist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Heather Johnson, PsyD, LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I enjoy working with clients around relational and family concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
***Not taking new clients at this time.*** Therapy can provide the resources, skills, and support to make positive transformations in your life. I'm sensitive to each individual's needs, goals, and comfort with the therapeutic process. My philosophy around change includes looking at past relational and emotional experiences, developing skills to manage difficult emotions in the present, and gaining insight into what might be creating barriers to a satisfying life. I offer this guidance in the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. I incorporate self-exploration and coping skill development to help reach your desired goals.
I enjoy working with clients around relational and family concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
***Not taking new clients at this time.*** Therapy can provide the resources, skills, and support to make positive transformations in your life. I'm sensitive to each individual's needs, goals, and comfort with the therapeutic process. My philosophy around change includes looking at past relational and emotional experiences, developing skills to manage difficult emotions in the present, and gaining insight into what might be creating barriers to a satisfying life. I offer this guidance in the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. I incorporate self-exploration and coping skill development to help reach your desired goals.
(612) 712-4504 View (612) 712-4504
Photo of Gail M. Yost, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Gail M. Yost
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
It is an amazing feeling when you feel heard and understood. Knowing your story will be held with great care and compassion only adds to feeling emotionally safe. Would you like to have that feeling? No longer feeling emotionally exhausted or being held back by anxiety, depression, or a disturbing experience. Let's explore new possibilities. If you are ready for change, give me a call. During this pandemic and beyond, Gail Yost and Associates is now offering telehealth/virtual visits for your convenience and care. We understand that times like this can be challenging on many levels and want to be sure that you feel supported.
It is an amazing feeling when you feel heard and understood. Knowing your story will be held with great care and compassion only adds to feeling emotionally safe. Would you like to have that feeling? No longer feeling emotionally exhausted or being held back by anxiety, depression, or a disturbing experience. Let's explore new possibilities. If you are ready for change, give me a call. During this pandemic and beyond, Gail Yost and Associates is now offering telehealth/virtual visits for your convenience and care. We understand that times like this can be challenging on many levels and want to be sure that you feel supported.
(651) 433-6353 View (651) 433-6353
Photo of Joy M Petermann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Joy M Petermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life or struggling to find answers to powerful questions? I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, children, and families who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, separation, grief and loss, or you may have something that feels overwhelming to you. I create an environment of openness and acceptance where you will be able to work towards healing and growth. I believe in a strength based, client centered, family systems approach that keeps in mind the numerous events that shape our lives and how our early attachments formulate future relating.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life or struggling to find answers to powerful questions? I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, children, and families who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, separation, grief and loss, or you may have something that feels overwhelming to you. I create an environment of openness and acceptance where you will be able to work towards healing and growth. I believe in a strength based, client centered, family systems approach that keeps in mind the numerous events that shape our lives and how our early attachments formulate future relating.
(763) 260-5010 View (763) 260-5010
Photo of Shannon M Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Shannon M Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Waitlist for new clients
Life is complex and often leaves us struggling with transitions, feeling anxious and/or depressed and searching for relief. Life after any loss can feel confusing, without direction, hopeless, full of regret or in some cases filled with relief. I believe listening to you and receiving your story with compassion, will offer healing, hope, and an opportunity for positive change. I endeavor to receive and hold your pain, sadness, anger, or other emotions with grace, while supporting you as you move toward positive change and renewed well-being.
Life is complex and often leaves us struggling with transitions, feeling anxious and/or depressed and searching for relief. Life after any loss can feel confusing, without direction, hopeless, full of regret or in some cases filled with relief. I believe listening to you and receiving your story with compassion, will offer healing, hope, and an opportunity for positive change. I endeavor to receive and hold your pain, sadness, anger, or other emotions with grace, while supporting you as you move toward positive change and renewed well-being.
(612) 429-4477 View (612) 429-4477
Photo of Life and Light Psychotherapy and Wellness, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Saint Louis Park, MN
Life and Light Psychotherapy and Wellness
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
If you are reading this, its an important step you just took towards your own healing journey. At Life and Light Healing and Wellness we lovingly attend to you, to all that makes you...you, to co-create a healing space. Whether it's the dark clouds of depression, the tentacles of anxiety, or the storm of PTSD, our clinicians are equipped with the tools and skills to support you through your journey to healing.
If you are reading this, its an important step you just took towards your own healing journey. At Life and Light Healing and Wellness we lovingly attend to you, to all that makes you...you, to co-create a healing space. Whether it's the dark clouds of depression, the tentacles of anxiety, or the storm of PTSD, our clinicians are equipped with the tools and skills to support you through your journey to healing.
(952) 260-4563 View (952) 260-4563
Photo of Maisa Boyte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Maisa Boyte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I am accepting new patients. I currently focus on working with adults and teens who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, eating disorders and relationship concerns. I aim to create an environment where the client feels supported and empowered in order to explore past and present experiences. I work to help clients identify challenges in their life and understand how these challenges or behavior patterns have developed. As a social worker, I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that values multiculturalism and diversity.
I am accepting new patients. I currently focus on working with adults and teens who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, eating disorders and relationship concerns. I aim to create an environment where the client feels supported and empowered in order to explore past and present experiences. I work to help clients identify challenges in their life and understand how these challenges or behavior patterns have developed. As a social worker, I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that values multiculturalism and diversity.
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Photo of Selah Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis Park, MN
Selah Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I work with individuals ranging from adults to teens on topics including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life adjustments.
My personal belief is that every person is valuable and has the potential to overcome negative events of the past, find acceptance in their unique identity, and engage in healthy, meaningful, and joy-filled relationships. I come from a passionate Colorado family that has taught me about the importance of caring, accepting, and loving others. These values have made me become an empathic and confident counselor.
I work with individuals ranging from adults to teens on topics including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life adjustments.
My personal belief is that every person is valuable and has the potential to overcome negative events of the past, find acceptance in their unique identity, and engage in healthy, meaningful, and joy-filled relationships. I come from a passionate Colorado family that has taught me about the importance of caring, accepting, and loving others. These values have made me become an empathic and confident counselor.
(651) 615-7045 View (651) 615-7045
Photo of Katherine Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis Park, MN
Katherine Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, ND, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426
As a Millennial or Gen Z woman, you may be grappling with questions about your identity and the meaning of life. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety or navigating through life changes such as graduating from college or moving to a new city. You may have also received a recent ADHD diagnosis, and it turns out that all those years of suffering from irritability, poor concentration, and indecision weren't just depression. Whether anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, depression, or all of the above are getting in the way of you feeling healthy, empowered, and resilient, therapy can help you live a more balanced life.
As a Millennial or Gen Z woman, you may be grappling with questions about your identity and the meaning of life. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety or navigating through life changes such as graduating from college or moving to a new city. You may have also received a recent ADHD diagnosis, and it turns out that all those years of suffering from irritability, poor concentration, and indecision weren't just depression. Whether anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, depression, or all of the above are getting in the way of you feeling healthy, empowered, and resilient, therapy can help you live a more balanced life.
(651) 349-6333 View (651) 349-6333
Photo of Molly L Nicholson, Counselor in Saint Louis Park, MN
Molly L Nicholson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
(612) 204-2823 View (612) 204-2823
Photo of Nancy Lawroski, Psychologist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Nancy Lawroski
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I have extensive experience working with clients on a wide range of issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, medical and health concerns, trauma and abuse, stress management, work and career issues, child behavioral and developmental issues, parenting and family issues, grief and loss, psychotic disorders.
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
I have extensive experience working with clients on a wide range of issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, medical and health concerns, trauma and abuse, stress management, work and career issues, child behavioral and developmental issues, parenting and family issues, grief and loss, psychotic disorders.
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
(651) 964-0957 View (651) 964-0957
Photo of Sam J Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Sam J Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Experiencing anxiety or depression? Shyness, constant sadness, and loneliness affecting your relationships? I specialize in helping individuals overcome these challenges. Together, we can work on reconnecting with others, finding energy, and rediscovering joy in life. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards positive change; you don't have to face this alone.
Experiencing anxiety or depression? Shyness, constant sadness, and loneliness affecting your relationships? I specialize in helping individuals overcome these challenges. Together, we can work on reconnecting with others, finding energy, and rediscovering joy in life. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards positive change; you don't have to face this alone.
(763) 230-0412 View (763) 230-0412
Photo of Madison Tweed, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Saint Louis Park, MN
Madison Tweed
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55424
I have interest in working with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma and challenging life transitions (i.
I have a few immediate openings for clients. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and warm environment where clients are free to explore their thoughts and emotions. I believe in fostering a therapeutic relationship that is welcoming and nonjudgmental. My hope is to help individuals feel understood and empowered as they heal. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to help them find deeper understanding of themselves.
I have interest in working with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma and challenging life transitions (i.
I have a few immediate openings for clients. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and warm environment where clients are free to explore their thoughts and emotions. I believe in fostering a therapeutic relationship that is welcoming and nonjudgmental. My hope is to help individuals feel understood and empowered as they heal. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to help them find deeper understanding of themselves.
(844) 968-2036 View (844) 968-2036
Photo of Julia Langer, Psychologist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Julia Langer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through my time at Washington University in St Louis and the Minneapolis VA, I gained specialized training in treatments for PTSD, Insomnia, Depression, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Nightmares, and emotion regulation and interpersonal difficulties.
Traumatic experiences, relationship problems, and painful emotions can keep us from living the lives we want to live. I will help you develop techniques to break this vicious cycle and reconnect with what matters. I have specialized training in evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness. My goal is to help you make changes that increase the quality of your life within an affirming environment with respect to sexuality, gender identity, religion, race, and all aspects of culture.
Through my time at Washington University in St Louis and the Minneapolis VA, I gained specialized training in treatments for PTSD, Insomnia, Depression, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Nightmares, and emotion regulation and interpersonal difficulties.
Traumatic experiences, relationship problems, and painful emotions can keep us from living the lives we want to live. I will help you develop techniques to break this vicious cycle and reconnect with what matters. I have specialized training in evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness. My goal is to help you make changes that increase the quality of your life within an affirming environment with respect to sexuality, gender identity, religion, race, and all aspects of culture.
(612) 509-0825 View (612) 509-0825
Photo of Krista Post, Psychologist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Krista Post
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426
I work with adults facing depression, anxiety issues (worry, panic, OCD, PTSD), relationship issues, grief/loss, work/career issues, unresolved past, self-esteem deficits, desire for self-growth, trauma, behavior problems, couples/martial therapy, postpartum depression & anxiety.
I bring a gentle yet direct approach to this work. Whether you are struggling with issues beyond your control or facing difficult aspects about yourself or life. I offer practical support and guidance. I will assist you in understanding your feelings and behaviors, and will gently challenge you to move toward change. I emphasize the importance of developing meaningful self-purpose and fulfilling work & relationships.
I work with adults facing depression, anxiety issues (worry, panic, OCD, PTSD), relationship issues, grief/loss, work/career issues, unresolved past, self-esteem deficits, desire for self-growth, trauma, behavior problems, couples/martial therapy, postpartum depression & anxiety.
I bring a gentle yet direct approach to this work. Whether you are struggling with issues beyond your control or facing difficult aspects about yourself or life. I offer practical support and guidance. I will assist you in understanding your feelings and behaviors, and will gently challenge you to move toward change. I emphasize the importance of developing meaningful self-purpose and fulfilling work & relationships.
(612) 296-3800 View (612) 296-3800
Photo of Sharri Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Sharri Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55426  (Online Only)
I have over twenty years experience providing counseling to adolescents, couples, families and individuals. I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse and trauma. I have helped numerous individuals overcome sexual behavior problems including pornography addictions. I am an empathetic mediator for issues including familial conflict, divorce, custody disputes, and parent/child Alienation is one area of expertise. I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, past trauma and current crisis. Client's describe me as a therapist who genuinely cares, listens and validates their experience while helping them move past the thoughts, behaviors and feelings that are negatively impacting their lives.
I have over twenty years experience providing counseling to adolescents, couples, families and individuals. I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse and trauma. I have helped numerous individuals overcome sexual behavior problems including pornography addictions. I am an empathetic mediator for issues including familial conflict, divorce, custody disputes, and parent/child Alienation is one area of expertise. I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, past trauma and current crisis. Client's describe me as a therapist who genuinely cares, listens and validates their experience while helping them move past the thoughts, behaviors and feelings that are negatively impacting their lives.
(952) 260-2433 View (952) 260-2433
Photo of Janelle DeRubeis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis Park, MN
Janelle DeRubeis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
If you are struggling with your sense of self or relationships due to past traumatic events, depression, or anxiety, know that you are not alone. Experiences such as neglect, abuse, and violence can impact the way we view ourselves and the world. If you are looking to build your self-worth, secure relationships, and overall live a more fulfilling life, I may be able to help! I'm also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ clients who are looking to explore and find acceptance in their gender and sexuality. I gladly support transgender clients in transitioning, such as writing letters of support for gender affirming surgeries.
If you are struggling with your sense of self or relationships due to past traumatic events, depression, or anxiety, know that you are not alone. Experiences such as neglect, abuse, and violence can impact the way we view ourselves and the world. If you are looking to build your self-worth, secure relationships, and overall live a more fulfilling life, I may be able to help! I'm also passionate about working with LGBTQ+ clients who are looking to explore and find acceptance in their gender and sexuality. I gladly support transgender clients in transitioning, such as writing letters of support for gender affirming surgeries.
(612) 482-5459 View (612) 482-5459
Photo of Jill Kozberg, Psychologist in Saint Louis Park, MN
Jill Kozberg
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
I work with individuals, couples and families who are typically dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, adult ADHD (including building skills related to time management, organization and prioritizing), parenting, and relationship difficulties.
Finding the right therapist is an important and courageous step in the process of creating a more fulfilling life. I believe that everyone has their own answers. I will work collaboratively with you and offer you support, feedback and perspective to help you move forward. We will build on your strengths to work toward the personal growth that you are committed to achieving. I work from a developmental perspective, where we will look at what you are experiencing in the context of your life's experiences. I will provide a non-judgmental, safe space for you.
I work with individuals, couples and families who are typically dealing with issues related to anxiety, depression, adult ADHD (including building skills related to time management, organization and prioritizing), parenting, and relationship difficulties.
Finding the right therapist is an important and courageous step in the process of creating a more fulfilling life. I believe that everyone has their own answers. I will work collaboratively with you and offer you support, feedback and perspective to help you move forward. We will build on your strengths to work toward the personal growth that you are committed to achieving. I work from a developmental perspective, where we will look at what you are experiencing in the context of your life's experiences. I will provide a non-judgmental, safe space for you.
(612) 416-7124 View (612) 416-7124
Franklin Family Services
Psychologist, MA, LP, SAP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
Relationship Challenges, Family Turmoil and problems with addictions.....Depression and Anxiety. When things look backwards, we'll help you move forward. We know at Franklin Family Services seeking a therapist can sometimes be difficult. We want to assure you we will listen compassionately and collaborate with you to create options towards meeting your goals. Call us at Franklin Family Services. We will connect you to the counseling that is right for you. If you feel overwhelmed without words to explain why,or wanting to rediscover your passion, or are experiencing family turmoil, we are real people who understand everyday challenges.
Relationship Challenges, Family Turmoil and problems with addictions.....Depression and Anxiety. When things look backwards, we'll help you move forward. We know at Franklin Family Services seeking a therapist can sometimes be difficult. We want to assure you we will listen compassionately and collaborate with you to create options towards meeting your goals. Call us at Franklin Family Services. We will connect you to the counseling that is right for you. If you feel overwhelmed without words to explain why,or wanting to rediscover your passion, or are experiencing family turmoil, we are real people who understand everyday challenges.
(952) 314-5377 View (952) 314-5377

See more therapy options for Saint Louis Park

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.